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Shopping Around for Micros: $1000-82500

MICROCOMPUTING

WAYNE GREEN PUBLICATION

Talk of the Town

Meet Heath's
ET- 1 00

O
O

a
a*

Getting HighV*"
With the HX-20 '
And Tandy 100

Handy Sinclair Subroutines
60 Minutes on Commodore

Penpad: The Handwriting's on the IBM

September 1983

USA $2.95

Number 81

74470"65945

{

}

Circle 3 on Reader Service card

I
I

Introducing the capability the world
has been waiting for. A single personal
computer able to handle Apple l: ,
IBM \ TRS-80 \ UNIX \ and
CP M ,: based software.

The Dimension 68(XX) Professional
Personal Computer does it all. It actu-
al ly contains the microprocessors
found in all of today's popular personal
computers. And. a dramatic new inno-
vation creates the environment that
allows all of these systems to function
merely by plugging in the software.

Add to this the incredible power
of a 32 bit MC 68000 microprocessor
with up to 16 million bytes of random
access memory. You have the machine
that easily meets today s needs. And
tomorrow's. It's the only practical way
to upgrade without the need to recreate
your data base.

Dimension. At about the same price
as the IBM K PC, it's obviously the
best value you can find. For more
information ask your dealer, or call
us at 1-800-527-7650

dimension

A product of Micro Craft Corporation

4747 Irving Blvd., Suite 241

Dallas, Texas 75247. 1983

Percom Data Corporation has one hard disk drive system for just about ALL personal computers
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with 5VV Winchester technology mean that for most personal computers
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A Percom Data PHD" will interface with your present system . . . and your future system
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your Percom Data Hard Disk Drive. ■

Because Percom Data helped create the industry standards of today . . . new designs in software
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A Percom Data PHD works to capacity because we take the time to correctly develop interface

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Today, Percom Data PHD supports a variety of software to match your computer:

IBM -PC, PC DOS 1.1 OR 1.0

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COR PORAT

O N

Expanding Your Peripheral Vision

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IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines APPLF is a registered trademark ol Apple Computer Inc
TRS-80 is a registered trademark ol Tandy Radio Shack Corp PHD is a registered trademark ol Percom Data Corporation

Contents: September 1983
Volume VII No. 9

OMPUTING

Heath's ET is endearing too.

Page 60

This printer will fit your budget . Page 76

Microcomputing (ISSN 0744-4567) is published monthly
by Wayne Green, Inc., 80 Pine St., Peterborough NH
03458. U.S. subscription rates $25, one year; $53, three
years. Canada and Mexico $27.97, one year, U.S. funds.
Foreign $44.97, one year; U.S. funds drawn on U.S.
bank. Foreign air mail subscriptions— please inquire.
Canadian Distributor: Micron Distributing, 409 Queen
St. West, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5V 2A5. South
African Distributor: Microcomputing, PO Box 782815,
Sandton, South Africa 2146. Second-class postage paid at
Peterborough, NH 03458 and at additional mailing of-
fices. Phone: 603-924-9471. Entire contents copyright
1983 by Wayne Green, Inc. No part of this publication
may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without writ-
ten permission from the publisher. Postmaster: Send
form #3579 to Microcomputing, Subscription Services,
PO Box 997, Farmingdale, NY 11737.

Microcomputing makes every effort to assure the ac-
curacy of articles, listings and circuits published in the
magazine. Microcomputing assumes no responsibility for
damages due to errors or omissions.

60 Cover: Heath's ET-100
Is Outta This World

This 16-bit do-it-yourself computer
is worth phoning home about.
By Tim Daniel

30 Keep Your Selectric Shipshape

A simple repair and maintenance
manual for Selectric printer own-
ers. By Mark Waller

36 Say It in Bar Code

This VIC-20 program turns your
printer into a bar-code generator.
By Joseph Verzino

44 TS-1000 Road Maps for the
Weary Traveler

These handy subroutines put you
in the driver's seat of your Timex-
Sinclair. By W.R. Henry

52 Something to Write About

Embarrassed by your (lack of) typ-
ing ability? Simply use your writ-
ing ability to enter data on a graph-
ics tablet with the Personal Penpad
for the IBM PC. By Kenniston Lord

56 Stick It for $10

Make your own inexpensive joy-
stick for cursor control and data
entry, as well as for playing Space
Invaders and Pac-Man.
By H. Bruce Land III

64 Up Periscope!

This VIC-20/C-64 program will
help you understand hexadecimal
and binary values.
By G. McClellan and M. Pazderka

70 Space Reservations Confirmed

This useful utility lets the more
serious Timex-Sinclair user make
use of space in upper memory.
By John Jainschigg

76 The NEC 8023A:

A New Breed of Printer

This dot-matrix printer features
versatility that is unmatched by
any other printer costing less than
$1000. By Bruce Carbrey

80 Disk User or Disk Duffer?

If you're a micro disk dilettante,
then this first of a two-part article
will help you get the most out of
your disk system through random
access file use. By Dan Bishop

90 Buyer's Guide to
$1000-$2500 Systems

This second in a series of buyer's
guides to microcomputer systems
helps you answer the question,
"Which micro is for me?"

102 In Search of Better
Floppy Performance

This article helps you choose a den-
sity level you can live with while in-
creasing floppy disk performance.
By John Potochnak

6 Publisher's Remarks

Dealer Frustrations

8 What's New, Big Blue?

A Hard Look at Software

16 Overview

Getting High on Knee-tops

22 PET pourri

Examining Disk Drive Compatibility

29 Letters to the Editor
98 Micro Software Digest

Software Reviews at a Glance

121 Club Notes

121 Dealer Directory

121 Classifieds

122 Calendar

124 Conversions

Heath Cribbage Program
TS-1000 Healthful Hints
VIC-20 Micro Money Maker

130 Book Reviews

134 New Software

138 New Products

146 Software Reviews

CP/M, IBM Spelling Checker
Learn Assembly Language
New, Improved Magic Window
Turn Chaos into Organization

Cover illustration by Chris Demerest.
Cover photos courtesy of Heath Company.

IBM goes back to basics— pen and paper
computing. Page 52

4 Microcomputing, September 1983

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IBHMMHHHHHBHHBBBHMMBBHMBHHiMMMMHHBBMHHBHIM

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Circle 369 on Reader Service card.

New From Cardco

he CARDBOARD/5
CB/5) is an enclosed
ive slot, fully switch
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ntertace tor the
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iser to switch select any
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\\\ Cardco products are
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nsure quality and
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for the C-64

Some of the features of the

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• high quality glass/epoxy
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• gold plated contacts

• logic lines are switched by
solid state IC switches

• full LED status indication

• convenient toggle switches

full support under the
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• full plastic enclosure to
insure safety

• fused to protect your
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• convenient reset button

• CARDCO, Inc.'s
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See a complete line of American
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Commodore 64 is a registered trademark of Commodore Business Systems, Inc.

cardco, inc.

MICROCOMPUTING

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

Wayne Green

EDITORIAL MANAGER

Jeff DeTray

MANAGING EDITOR

Dennis Brisson

REVIEW EDITOR

Dan Muse

COPY EDITOR

Larry Canale

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Swain Pratt

PROOFREADER

Harold Bjornsen

PRODUCTION EDITOR

Susan Gross

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Michele Christian

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Robert Baker, Thomas Bonoma,
Frank Derfler, Jr.,

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Nancy Salmon

ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGERS

Michael Murphy, David Wozmak

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION

Bruce Hedin

PRODUCTION DEPARTMENT

Joan Ahem, Patricia Bradley, Fiona Davies, Linda Drew,

Bob Dukette, Michael Ford, Phil Geraci,

Marjorie Gillies, Susan Hays, Laura Landy,

Kimberly Nadeau, Judy Oliver, Lynn Parsons,

Scott Philbrick, Paula Ramsey, Ken Sutcliffe,

Karen Wozmak

FILM PRODUCTION

Theresa Verville, Donna Hartwell, Robert Villeneuve

PHOTOGRAPHY

Thomas Villeneuve, Sandra Dukette, Laurie Jennison,
Sturdy Thomas

TYPESETTING

Sara Bedell, Darlene Bailey,

Prem Krishna Gongaju, Lynn Haines,

Cynthia Letourneau, Lindy Palmisano, Heidi Thomas,

Michael Thompson, Sue Weller

DESIGN DIRECTOR

Christine Destremps

DESIGN

Joyce Pillarella; Susan Donohoe, Howard Happ,
Dion Owens, Dianne Ritson, Patrice Scribner,
Susan Stevens, Suzanne Torsheya, Sarah Werninger,
Donna Wohlfarth

EXECUTIVE VICE-PRESIDENT

Sherry Smythe-Green

GENERAL MANAGER/VICE PRESIDENT

Debra Wetherbee

CONTROLLER/VICE-PRESIDENT

Roger Murphy

ASSISTANT TO THE CONTROLLER

Dominique Smith

ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER

Matthew Smith

ACCOUNTING MANAGER

Knud Keller

CIRCULATION MANAGER
603-924-9471

Pat Ferrante

BULK SALES MANAGER

Ginnie Boudrieau

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & SALES

David Schissler

SALES MANAGER

Giorgio Saluti

ADVERTISING

603-924-7138

Bob Sharkey, Judi Wimberly

Manuscripts

Contributions in the form of manuscripts with drawings
and/or photographs are welcomed and will be considered for
possible publication. We can assume no responsibility for
loss or damage to any material. Please enclose a self-
addressed, stamped envelope with each submission. Pay-
ment for the use of any unsolicited material will be made
upon acceptance. All contributions should be directed to the
Microcomputing editorial office (Pine St., Peterborough, NH
03458). "How to Write for Microcomputing" guidelines are
available upon request.

6 Microcomputing, September 1983

PUBLISHER'S REMARKS Way

Give Dealers

A Chance

ne Green

Dealer Frustrations

On the one side we have several hun-
dred manufacturers of desktop comput-
ers trying to sell their products. In order
to sell these, they need application soft-
ware to work with them. It's a whole lot
easier for a dealer to sell a computer sys-
tem if he can demonstrate it actually
does something of value for the potential
buyer.

On the other side we have a growing
number of software firms who seem to be
trying to make life as difficult as possible
for dealers. It's a bear.

At hand is a promotion piece from an
outfit selling business programs. They
claim to have been in business for over 30
years — which is possible, even if I've nev-
er heard of them. But the contract they sent
with the promotion really has to be read.

Would you believe a contract that calls
for a $50 nonrefundable fee for a demo
disk? That binds the dealer to operate out
of one and only one location? That binds
the manufacturer to no warranties and
no responsibility for delays in delivery?
That forces the dealer to buy liability and
property damage insurance? That gives
the manufacturer the right to inspect the
dealer's books? That prevents the dealer,
if he should cancel the contract, from pro-
viding business management counsel-
ing, analysis, tax preparation, record-
keeping, bookkeeping, accounting, busi-
ness brokerage, etc., for two years after?
That confers no exclusive rights? It is a
beaut and should be read by every dealer.

Life is hard enough when you have a
good piece of reasonably priced hardware
and a good software package. You still
have to sell some very reluctant custo-
mers, so one of the last things you need is
a supplier who wants you to sign a con-
tract relieving him of any responsibility
for promoting the product, for making
sure the program really works, or even
for delivering it when promised.

Would that this contract were unusual.
Unfortunately, it is more typical of what
is going on than anomalous. It is difficult
for me to imagine any dealer signing
such a contract, but obviously it has to be
happening, or else the firm in question
would be out of business.

Hey, Dennis, We'll Miss You

During NCC I stopped by the Eagle
Computer reception party to see how the
firm was doing. A strange bearded chap
came up and said, "Hello Wayne." It
turned out to be Dennis Barnhardt, the
president, and one of the nicer people in
our field.

I'd first met Dennis in 1978 when he
was sales manager at Commodore.

Next Dennis turned up in 1979 as the
president of MITA, the Microcomputer
Industry Trade Association, which lacked
enough raison d'etre to get industry
funding and thus survive.

Even with his marketing skills, I was a
bit skeptical about his scheme to manu-
facture the Eagle, about the 350th new
microcomputer to hit the market. De-
spite the odds, he got the show going well
enough to take the firm public, coming
out of that with a nice $9 million slice of
the pie for himself. Not bad for about 18
months' work, eh? No wonder he was so
excited about the coming offering at NCC.

The bummer came when I read the Par-
is Herald Trib while in Jordan and noted
that Dennis had been killed in a crash of
his new Ferrari just a block from the Ea-
gle plant in Los Gatos. We have so few
good marketing people in the field that
we really can't afford to lose any— and
particularly nice guys like Dennis. He
will be missed, even by casual friends
like me.

The news item conjectured about what
might happen to Eagle after this serious
loss. I suggest that if the people at Ea-
gle stick to the plans Dennis laid out for
marketing, they'll all do OK. Most of the
miseries I've seen in desktop computer
marketing have come from the basic
marketing plans being set up by people
without micro marketing experience.
And this industry just has no parallel, so
without that background there are a lot of
horrible errors and lost firms. Indeed, if
we lose less than 200 of the desktop man-
ufacturers in the next two years, I'm
going to be surprised. □

PLATO COURSEWARE MAKES
SERIOUS EDUCATION FUN.

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PLATO coaxes and guides stu-
dents. PLATO rewards them with
the feeling of accomplishment.

PLATO courseware is being used
in classrooms across the nation.
Now you can bring this quality
education home, \bull find PLATO
lessons at selected retail outlets
where quality software is sold.

All PLATO micro courseware
is available for the Apple II
Plus and Apple lie. Lessons
are also available for the
TI 99/4A and the Atari 800.

There are lessons in Math, in-
cluding Basic Number Facts, Whole
Numbers, Decimals and Fractions,-
Foreign Language vocabulary
builders in French, German and
Spanish/ a Physics lesson in ele-
mentary mechanics; Computer

Computer Concepts

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Literacy that introduces kids and
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*Computer Concepts that pro-
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Widen your child's world.

See the entire growing library of
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selected retail outlets. Or for infor-
mation and a free PLATO catalog,
call toll-free: 800-233-3784. Or
write: Control Data Publishing Co.,
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Warranty available free from Control Data Publishing Co.,
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* Developed with Continuous Learning Corporation
** Developed with Gregg/ McGraw-Hill.

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COMPUTER-BASED EDUCATION

CONTRpL DATA
PUBLISHING

Circle 47 on Reader Service card.

WHAT S NEW

Drowning in a Sea

Of Shortcomings

By Thomas V. Bonoma

Where Do
Software Buyers
Turn for Advice?

Getting Personal

This month marks the first anniver-
sary of this column. It also marks some
100 pages of reviews, commentary, origi-
nal programs and periodic reviews of ma-
jor software pieces.

Since anniversaries are a time for re-
flection, I'll do a little reflecting on soft-
ware. We'll have our full complement of
software reviews, news and views, too.
No program this month, though. I'm
working on something really special and
it's not finished yet.

Read At your Own Risk

The more software I review, the more
amazed I am that anybody, manager or
hobbyist, could wend his way through
any large subset of the available market
offerings and not wind up thoroughly
disgusted. The outstanding packages—
1-2-3, WordStar, PowerText and others-
stand out like islands in a sea of short-
comings and limited applicability.

It's my belief that people overpay for
the code they get, can be considered ex-
perts in dead languages if they can work
their way through the murky manuals
and generally wind up with $299 paper-
weights to go along with their $6000 pa-
perweight of a computer. As a result, soft-
ware buyers often feel like five-year-olds
at noon on Christmas day . . . surround-
ed by ribbons and pretty paper, but with
a toy that looked better in the ads than it
works on the living room rug.

Help!

Well, caveat emptor and all that.
That's what a free market is for, I guess.

But where do you go for help? Retail-
ers? By and large, they're a joke. I've
been told that IBM PCs and NEC printers
are incompatible, that The MBA was
written to run under DOS and that The
Last One is a useful program generator.
I'm sure you have your own stories; retail
sales people are the best advertisements
for mail-order houses there could be, be-
cause they just don't know much about

8 Microcomputing, September 1983

the applications they'd like to sell.

So how about the magazines? Not
much better, I'm afraid. The PC- targe ted
ones, with one exception (it begins with
S . . . ) are locked in mortal combat to out-
weigh each other, and they often neglect
either good reviews or solid tutorials be-
tween their heavier and heavier covers.
The others seem locked into outweighing
and outjargoning each other, all at once.
And, for us poor users, or worse, mana-
gers who'd like to be users, there's very
little indeed.

It is characteristic of high-growth mar-
kets to support more activity than real in-
novation; they wind themselves up in
their own ideas of what's right. But pro-
ducers and others in the industry can be
taught. Vote with your dollars, of course,
but vote with your word processors, too.
Write to the vendors, and write especially
to the magazines about the vendors, the re-
tailers, the mail-order guys and the mag-
azines, too, so that things will change.
Things can change.

Words, Pictures and
Numbers

Words

This column comes to you courtesy of
The Final Word, an outstanding word
processing system that operates in two
modes. For short and simple documents,
just type on the screen the way you
might with WordStar, Volkswriter or any
other first-rate processor. If the docu-
ments get complicated or if you get fancy,
FW has a variety of special formatting
and other functions you build into your
text with English-like commands.

All commands use the @ character as a
signal to FW that what follows is a direc-
tive, or an "environment." More than
100 such directives are available to the
user, making FW absolutely formidable
at text processing. The directives vary
from simple commands to the holding of

text, and underline it with complicated
ways of assigning long names to shorter
variables so you don't have to keep on
typing them over and over.

The environments are even more flexi-
ble. There are four levels of FW-tracked.
numbered and formatted heading com-
mands, such as Chapter, Section, Sub-
section and Paragraph. Use of these
commands causes FW to automatically
number the various sections without
your interference, and to construct
(again, automatically) a table of contents
with everything listed in the right place.

A similar set of commands exists for
people (like me) who don't number para-
graphs and sections, but need automati-
cally formatted headings, subheadings
and the like. In fact. Heading and Sub-
heading are FW commands; note the
English-language flexibility here.

FW also handles footnoting, super-
scripting and subscripting automatical-
ly. It even semi-automatically constructs
indexes to books. The really fun stuff,
though, involves the text format com-
mands, which include at least four ways
to construct lists (see example), and an
"@ verse" command, which prints
poetry for those inclined to iambic pen-
tameter.

More Final Word Features

Here are more features of FW:

• Style— FW is easy to configure for dou-
ble-spaced manuscripts vs single-spaced
letters on letterhead. This parameter in-
forms the program how you want your
text to appear. Input is allowable as lines,
characters, picas, points, inches or even
centimeters for most of the Style direc-
tives.

• Headers/ Footers — Headers and footers
can be multiline, can include page and
chapter title references automatically
and are most flexible.

Address correspondence to Thomas V.
Bonoma, 45 Drum Hill Road, Concord,
MA 01 742.

• Printers— FW supports a full comple-
ment of quality printers (such as Epson,
IDS, Spinwriter and Diablo) and has
translation tables to produce fully pro-
portional print on those printers that can
do it.

• State Save— Because FW constantly
saves your work automatically, a power
outage loses no work. Even "lunching"
the buffer files doesn't hurt anything.

• Multiple Windows — FW allows you to
have two documents on the screen at one
time and up to 12 in its many text-editing
buffers. It's similar to Edix in this regard.

• Menu-driven — It's driven through a
series of menus, has on-line help and is
moderately friendly to users.

• PC Keys— FW has been integrated with
the PC function keys for ease of use.

Final's Flaws

Final Word is a super word processing
system, but it does have flaws — and
they're due mostly to the program's high
aspirations. Although a basic installation
can be done with ease by the user for his
system, this is one program I'd want cus-
tomized by my dealer when I bought it.
That's because some printers and other
peripherals need to be set up with certain
ports on the IBM and certain specialized
tables for text translation (all this is in-
cluded in FW). And although the ad-
vanced installation program is simple
and friendly, the choices available to the
user get mind-boggling quickly. If you're
not a techie, buy this one retail and get
some help.

Also, I find the array of commands
available to me confusing in their multi-
plicity. I've integrated FW with Prokey to
simplify the array of keystrokes, choices
and formats available to me. It's likely
that the average user will not need to ac-
cess many of FW's advanced features fre-
quently, though, and it's important to
note that you can type away on the sys-
tem all day, meeting normal require-
ments (such as underscores), and never
need these features.

Although FW is excellent, it rivals
WordStar in complexity. Fortunately,
FW comes with some disk- and book-
based tutorials, and it has an excellent
manual.

A recent survey in The New York
Times suggests that most PCs are used
for word processing. If yours is, you can
make your machine do everything but
bark with FW.

Volkswriter's International Edition

In a different way, Volkswriter's Inter-
national Edition also is a masterpiece. Es-
sentially, VWIE is VW version 1.2 with
the very important addition of keyboard
and printer character-translation tables.

That means that if you're French, you
can reprogram your keyboard for the
PC's French character driver sold with
your machine in Quebec. More useful for
us English-speaking folk, perhaps, is the

Circle 299 on Reader Service card.

ware

T-

he sky's the limit with Franklin hardware. Because as our
product line continues to grow, so can your ACE 1000 personal
computer.

We still feature exceptional Franklin standards. Like true
upper and lowercase characters, typewriter-style keyboard, 12-
key numeric pad, and VisiCalc® keys. There's also color graphics
capabilities. And 64K of RAM. Above all, Franklin ACE™ com-
puters are hardware and software compatible with Apple®ll —
the largest microcomputer peripherals and software market in
the world.

Now Franklin's peripheral boards can expand the capabili-
ties of the ACE 1000 even more. By providing serial and parallel
interfaces and a full 80-column display.
There's even a card that allows you to run
CP/M programs as well. So, experience
another realm of computing. With ACE
computers and accessories.

Franklin ACE is a trademark of Franklin Computer Corp.

VisiCalc is a registered trademark of Visi Corp.

Apple is a registered trademark of Apple Computer Inc.

COMPUTER CORPORATION

Better than even

2128 Route 38 Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 Telephone: 609-482-5900 Telex: 837-385

FRANKLIN

Microcomputing, September 1983 9

print- table capability. This allows char-
acters on the screen to be translated to
characters on the printer, giving VWI
text graphics capabilities you can get
with no other word processor. Example 1
shows what I mean.

Pictures

Graphwriter is a presentation graphics
package (programmed in Pascal) that
supports the IBM PC, the HP7470A and
two other plotters. Its makers claim it ri-
vals the kinds of presentation output
available from $40,000 mainframe sys-
tems like Teligraph, and as a veteran of
both those and Graphwriter, I would en-
dorse that claim.

In addition to the standard pie, bar and
line charts, GW allows you to select from
texty word charts, overlays to put on other
charts (as with transparencies), and, with
an optional set of formats, Gantt charts,
bubble charts, organization charts and
the like.

The program is exceptionally friendly,
and it's capable of making decisions for
the user (such as when to turn titles side-
ways or when to reduce the size of a
graph). It accepts VisiCalc files, has input
forms for users who are not operators and
can automatically move titles, legends
and commands, alter character fonts,
sizes and colors, and relocate graphs al-

most anywhere on a page.

GW is menu-driven, well-integrated with
the PC function keys and well-doc-
umented (it includes two pocket refer-
ence guides). It needs two 320K drives,
128K of memory, a color monitor/color
board and an HP plotter to work.

Graphwriter is

exceptionally friendly,

and it's capable of making

decisions for the user . . .

The only thing wrong with GW in
its current incarnation is that it makes
The MBA look fast. That's no exaggera-
tion; when you punch up a menu selec-
tion, a message comes on the screen that
says, "Wait about two minutes." This
snail's pace is due to the immense
amount of code (four disks worth) needed
to run GW.

Volk5writer tm International Edition is different from
Version 1.2 of Volkswriter tm in that it adds two
exceptionally functional "table files" to VW's repetoire of
abilities. One, a Keyboard file, essentially allows you to
redefine any normal or speical (e.g., alternate) keys with
the special characters the IBM is capable of displaying. Here
are some samples:

IIIIIIlllIlllllllllIllllllIIIIIIIllllIllllllllllII

:;;bl OCKjl ::Qt^^pni.c:s:::::::::;::nii!lii!;iliiin!nn!!innMUUU!!in

:•>: :•:•: *>x :•;*: :•;•: :•:■: *.•*.■: ;•:•*. :•>; '.•*••'. :»x Xti :•>; :*x :•;•: :•:•: x*: :-x x-: :•;•:
>.v :*:< >x :<< xx X;: :•;;; ; : x :<•: >.•. :-:•. :>x .;.;. .;.:. .:.;. .;.;. .:•;. .;.;. .;.;. .%:•

x*: :■:•: i« >x :•:•: :•:•: :•:•: »: :•;•: :•;■: :•:•: ;•:•: :•:•: ;•:■: >:•'. :•:•: :•:■: :•:•: :■;•: :
|: *:; <$. :| \V: Q '#: & %: %: # & $. &l S : :* &

:\ .*.«. .•.*. .•••. .*.*. .*••. .•.•* •;•:■

Formulae: oc + 2* ft

re n £

Fractions: 16-i and 19-i

Line Graphics:

-Boxed Text

The nice P_art about all of this, as you can
is that you can use underlining, bolding and all the other VW
special effects and get all these characters without worrying
about a thing.

VW works with about 15 popular printers

long as you have

a supported printer, you can create a printer table to take
advantage of its special features. It doesn't do much good to
display special characters if you can't print them, and
that's where the PRINT tables come in. What you are looking
at was generated on a "bootleg" IBM Graphics Printer (i.e.,
an Epson MX-80 F/T with IBM Graphics Printer ROMS stuffed in
it). Other printers supported with special conversion tables
by VW include NEC Spinwriters, Okidata Microline 84, Epsons
(both MX-80 and MX-80 III with Graftrax Plus) and a numberof
others. The release diskette, though, has quite a few more
printer tables than are listed in the appendix, so be sure to
check there for the most current support provided.

Example 1 . Sample of Volkswriter International Edition's capabilities.

The GW people say they are working
on speed-ups, which are sorely needed.
But until (and unless) they can make this
program somewhere in the area of five or
ten times as fast, many users will be
thrilled with the quality of the output and
ease of use but angry with the time it
takes to get there.

Also no winner in the speed category is
Graph' n'Calc. GC, which requires only
one disk and a 64K machine with a color
adapter, is a limited (lOx 100) spread-
sheet, graphics and, most importantly,
forecasting program, which is well-pack-
aged and well-thought-through.

GC permits relatively sophisticated
mathematical forecasting (single, double
and triple exponential smoothing) over
data that would be interesting to a man-
ager. It works smoothly (if not quickly)
and it has first-rate graphics capability,
which automatically uses the color
screen while the data remains on the
monochrome (if you have both).

Optional upgrades include a compiled
version of the program that isn't much
quicker, because most of GC's delays are
to go out to disk for another program
module (the compiled version requires
128K) and HP7470A plotter support.

I really like GC's features: it computes
seasonality of sales figures, automatical-
ly generates comparative statistics on
two sets of data, does exponential
smoothing, automatically "grows" val-
ues by a percentage or an amount, han-
dles correlation analysis, logs and works
as a desk calculator.

Sure, these features are nothing you
can't do with VisiCalc or 1-2-3, but it's all
there for you, it's businesslike and it
works flawlessly, from calc'ing to graph-
ing to printing and plotting. GC even
comes with a forecasting book and a
highlighter so you'll read it. But the
slowness is a problem, even with a hard
disk, and the timing of GC couldn't have
been poorer considering 1-2-3's recent
success.

In a different picture's vein is The
Draftsman, which I looked at before (but
didn't review). This version is from Star-
Ware, a new company with some good
products.

The Draftsman has a relatively com-
plete on-line tutorial; it's so complete that
the manual is just a skeleton for the on-
disk "book." Essentially, The Draftsman
is a graphing package that produces pie,
line or bar charts from a spreadsheet-like
data entry screen to your specifications.

The Draftsman is flexible, too. For ex-
ample, pies can be exploded, titled and
footnoted, and colors can be changed at
will. The Draftsman works in medium-
and high-resolution graphics, and it al-
lows you to adjust the size of your
plot (within screen limits). It supports
an Epson/Graftrax or an HP plotter for
hardcopy.

The fun starts after you're done graph-
ing, however. The Draftsman's flexible

10 Microcomputing, September 1983

on-screen editor allows you to paint and
to add lines, boxes, text, arrows and cir-
cles to your graphics. And creating an or-
ganization chart or writing your name on
a graph in script can be done.

I have mixed feelings about this pro-
gram. It impresses me more as a hobby-
ist's toy than as a working program, for
several reasons.

First, it has a lot of options, such as
chart sizing, that have to be input in
screen points or other obtuse units. Next,
it seems to impose undocumented restric-
tions on the user. For instance, anything
longer that a three-letter abbreviation
won't fit on the X-axis for bar charting.
Similarly, the program seems to provide
smaller screen plots than are either nec-
essary or useful, averaging something
like a 5 x 7 display area.

When I evaluated the Plantronics ver-
sion of this software. I didn't review it be-
cause I couldn't get it to operate with a
print spooler, the Apparat Spool/64. Ap-
parently, some of the print codes output
with The Draftsman interact negatively
with the spooler's own processor to cause
faulty output (this can happen with Lo-
tus' 1-2-3 as well). That's no fault of The
Draftsman, but at first I wasn't sure if it
was the program or the spooler.

Before Lotus' graphics package (and,
in a way, GC's), I think I would have been
more impressed with The Draftsman. It's
a competent package, to be sure. But
things are heating up out there!

Numbers

I'm sure you've read reviews of TK!
Solver elsewhere, so I'm not going to
spend a lot of time on it. As you know, it's
an impressive scientific/technical model-
solver with some fancy features, includ-
ing rudimentary graphics.

The interesting thing, in my several-
hour sojourn with the package, though,
is not that it's so well-done, but that it's
clearly a solution in search of a problem.
It's a darned complicated program that
requires that the operator bring to it the
sophistication of understanding in a con-
ceptual/modeling sense that would allow
him to take advantage of its benefits. For
the average manager or hobbyist, I sus-
pect, TK's capacities far outstrip most
problems he'll ask it to solve.

If I'm right, what may still save this in-
troduction are the TK! Solver Application
Paks (Financial Management and an en-
gineering one have been released to
date), and the TK! SATN Newsletter. The
first two are well-done and reasonably
priced packages where common prob-
lems (analyzing a corporation's finan-
cial, for instance) have been worked out
on TK, and all the user has to do is Till in
the blanks.''

The latter is a nice newsletter (not free,
unfortunately) put out by Software Arts.
It explains new uses for TK to users. We'll
see. If I were a betting man, though, I'd
predict that not as many packages will be

Circle 370 on Reader Service card.

ware

T-

here's just no end to the software available for Franklin
ACE™ computers. Start with Franklin's own word processing and
spreadsheet analysis programs. ACEWriter II and ACECalc.
Sophisticated, yet easy to learn and use.

ACEWriter II was designed to take advantage of the type-
writer-style keyboard of the Franklin ACE computers. And ACE-
Calc, with a full 80-column display of variable column widths,
lets you arrange data in a format that's manageable and easy
to read, without squeezing or wasting space. ACECalc also al-
lows you to create "invisible" fields. And to protect other fields
from being accidentally changed.

And when you need more than word processing and
spreadsheet analysis, you can choose from
16,000 more software programs, including
accounting, payroll, inventory and purchas- ».»
ing. Even games. Because Franklin ACE Rl*y
computers are compatible with software
written for the Apple® II.

Franklin ACE is a trademark of Franklin Computer Corp. E^2A9ki^£M Mk\M

VisiCalc is a registered trademark of Visi Corp. ■ ■■##*W»mfc#» W

Apple is a registered trademark of Apple Computer Inc. COMPUTER CORPORATION

Better than ever.

2128 Route 38 Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 Telephone: 609-482-5900 Telex: 837-385

Microcomputing, September 1983 11

sold as predicted by the prophets, and
that many sold won't be used.

InSoft has introduced and is promoting
heavily The Accountant, its general led-
ger system. The documentation is well-
done, the system is provided on 12 disks
(three each for A/R, A/P, Payroll and G/L),
and it appears to be well-integrated. In
addition, it significantly underprices
Peach tree Software's programs. If there's
an accountant out there — or better yet, a
bookkeeper with a PC — let me know and
you can review The Accountant for us.

Number Cruncher and Viz-a-Con

Number Cruncher was promoted as
" 1-2-3 with full text processing abilities."

Well, 1-2-3 it isn't, but it is a financial
modeling system that apparently can do
its magic within letters or other text. I say
"apparently" because (1) the on-line NC
demo wouldn't run; (2) there is little to
nothing in the manual about text editing
or text manipulating commands (but
plenty about financial model creating);
and (3) I gave up in frustration on the
program.

I may have an early version, but I can't
believe someone would let software go
out the door that way.

Finally, there is Viz-a-Con, a sheet con-
solidator for VisiCalc. Consolidation
means adding a third dimension, multi-
ple "pages," to your spreadsheet. This is

The "Big Blue" Black Book

Prices, Addresses of This Month's Featured Products, Companies

The Accountant ($365)

InSoft

10175 S.W. Barbur Blvd.

Portland, OR 97219

CP+ ($200)
Taurus Software
3685 Mt. Diablo Blvd.
Lafayette, CA 94549

Curse of Ra ($19.95)

Jabbertalky ($29.95)

Star Warrior ($39.95)

Upper Reaches of Asphai ($19.95)

Epyx/ Automated Simulations

1043 Kiel Court

Sunnyvale, CA 94086

The Draftsman ($200)
The Installer ($39)
Mail Manager ($39)
Money Matters ($99)
Multijob ($159)
StarWare
2000 K St. N.W.
Suite 504
Washington, DC 20006

The Final Word ($300)
Mark of the Unicorn
PO Box 423
Arlington, MA 02174

Friendly Ware PC Arcade ($49.95 )

FriendlySoft

3609 Smith-Barry Road

Arlington, TX 76013

Golf Challenge ($24.95)
Mouskattack ($34.95)
Sierra On-Line, Inc.
Sierra On-Line Building
Coarsegold, CA 93614

Graph , n , Calc($199)

(Plotter support— additional $50)

Desk Top Computer Software
Suite 29-303
303 Portrero St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Graphwriter ($495)
Graphic Communications, Inc.
200 Fifth Ave.
Waltham, MA 02254

Keynote ($99)

Advanced Software Interface

2655 Campus Drive

Suite 260

San Mateo, CA 94403

Network Consulting p-system ($845)

Network Consulting, Inc.

3700 Gilmore Way

Burnaby, B.C. V5G 4M1

Canada

Number Cruncher ($395)
Pyramid Data, Ltd.
POBox 10116
Orange, CA92711

Prokey ($75)

ProSoftware

4710 University Way N.E.

Suite 601

Seattle, WA 98105

TK! Solver ($295) and
Financial Management
TK! Solver Pak ($100)
Software Arts, Inc.
27 Mica Lane
Wellesley, MA 02181

Viz-a-Con ($139.95)
Abacus Associates
6565 W. Loop South
Bellaire, TX 77401

the same capability that adding sub-
sidiary sheets gives you ( 1-2-3 has partial
capability here, MultiPlan has moderate
capability and EasyCalc and PerfectCalc
have broad capability).

Viz-a-Con automatically combines
stored data files from your VisiCalc mod-
el in the order you specify, prints multi-
ple copies of reports and saves results
and reports for future use or for word
processor incorporation. Because Viz-a-
Con and VisiCalc run separately, you can
save your VisiCalc files in DIF format for
use with Viz-a-Con.

At first glance, one wonders why any-
one would pay $ 140 for Viz-a-Con when a
true subsidiary spreadsheet is $99 or so.
But, if you know Viz-a-Con and have a lot
of stuff developed using it, it can make
sense for you.

Network's Pascal, CP + ,
Multi- Job and Other Stuff

I've spent almost two months reading
though the six-inch stack of documenta-
tion that comes with Network Consult-
ing's p-system implementation, and it's
obvious to me why the best non-DOS soft-
ware manufacturers use it over either of
IBM's Pascals. DataFax. PowerText. The
MBA, VersaForm . . . you name it and it
uses Network's implementation of Pas-
cal. Supplied on seven disks — a copy of
The UCSD Pascal Handbook is even
thrown in with the documentation —
NCI's package is the best around. It offers
hard disk support, RAMdisk support,
8087 numerical coprocessor support,
serial communications support, double-
side/double-track floppy disk support,
ten-sector disks (25 per cent more space),
faster disk reads and programmable
function keys. And that's not even count-
ing any of NCI's applications, like the
awesome ASE editor, which you can see
in use on PowerText.

Simpler Than Basic, But . . .

The interesting thing about Pascal as a
programming language is that in many
ways it's simpler than working in Basic.
Unfortunately, IBM's releases have been
buggy (this includes Fortran, too), in-
complete and pretty hard to work with
(although UCSD Pascal has just been
cleaned up). NCI's Pascal takes away
much of the difficulty of managing lower-
level tasks, such as peripheral inter-
facing, and lets you concentrate on your
work. You won't buy NCI's system
cheap, but you won't be sorry if you look
to it when you learn Pascal.

CP + is a simplified way of interacting
with your CP/M-86 (not DOS). You select
a program instead of worrying about sys-
tem-level run commands, you manage
listings either forward or backward at
will, and you queue the printer with up to
ten files for automatic printing. Similar

12 Microcomputing, September 1983

ease-of-use overlays exist for looking at a
file or directories or for file copying,
erasing or renaming.

Those of us with 1-2-3 have gotten fat
and lazy by virtue of Lotus' Access Sys-
tem, which does many of these things for
us. Those of us who work with CP/M,
though, now have a way to simplify oper-
ations.

Multitasking Package from Star Ware

Multijob from StarWare is the first of
the multitasking packages to hit the mar-
ket. Though it works with a 64K ma-
chine, the more memory you have, the
better.

What does it do? Well, you run Multi-
Job after boot and "assign" blocks of
memory to Alt key combinations (Alt- 1 ,
Alt-2, etc.). Then, to switch between
them, just hit that number.

Consequently, you can have Final Word
running in one 96K area of memory, and
Multiplan in another. To switch back and
forth is no problem, and for all intents
and purposes, you are running both pro-
grams at once. Of course, there's no way
to use Multijob with copy-protected, self-
booting software or with non-DOS pro-
grams, like The MBA. (I couldn't get it to
work with 1-2-3. either.) Nonetheless, if
you'd like WordStar and SuperCalc run-
ning at the same time with dBase, and
you have enough memory. Multijob will
do it for you.

StarWare' s program greatly outstrips
its documentation, a seeming character-
istic of the company, so don't expect too
much help from the manual. The pro-
gram, however, is so simple to use (it's
copy-protected, by the way), that you'll
have no trouble.

Prokey has been reviewed here before,
and now comes Keynote. Both are "mac-
ro" generators; that is, they assign any
string you choose to two-key combina-
tions (usually, with Alt), so that Alt-E can
become 'The Charlie Conoway Corp.,
Ltd." in all your letters, if you choose.

Prokey does more than Keynote and it
costs less, so we have the rarity of a clear
choice, right? Well, almost. Prokey 's
variable macros allow the user to fill in
whatever he chooses at the time the mac-
ro is invoked — a major advantage. Key-
note, however, is somewhat easier to use
than Prokey, a consideration as well.
Also, both Keynote and Prokey work with
the Compaq portable computer, a possi-
ble consideration. And I've found some
problems getting Prokey to work reliably
with Mailmerge, although this has been
fixed in versions 2. 12 and later. Therefore,
what you need should determine what
you buy. Keynote is less fancy, but easier
to learn. Prokey is more complete.

Relaxing: Briefly Noted

The major news on the games front is
Friendlyware's PC Arcade, which shows
you how far text graphics can go on the

Circle 331 on Reader Service card.

where

FRANKLIN dealers

I he list goes on and on. Because Franklin now has more
than 1 ,000 dealers throughout the country. From Savannah to
Sun Valley.

What does that mean to you? It means that your Franklin
computer system is backed by a growing company with an in-
credible dealer network from coast to coast. For stability And
service when and where you need it.

Our dealers are ready to show you Franklin's total solution.
No more confusion over which software to purchase, what runs
on which computer— and whether it'll really work. With Franklin
you have everything you need. Hardware. Software!
Everywhere.

Where else, but at Franklin?

Franklin ACE is a trademark of Franklin Computer Corp.

VisiCalc is a registered trademark of Visi Corp.

Apple is a registered trademark of Apple Computer Inc.

FRANKLIN

COMPUTER CORPORATION

Better than ever.

2128 Route 38 Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 Telephone: 609-482-5900 Telex: 837-385

Microcomputing, September 1983 13

one hand, and how to give real value for
the money on the other. It has on-line
help, instructions and 9V6 games (the
tenth isn't really a game, but a dis-
play), several of which are sure to please.
This is another winner from the folks
who did such a good job with their In-
troductory Set.

From Sierra On-Line, makers of high-
quality games for the PC, comes Golf
Challenge and Mouskattack.

In Golf Challenge, you play a medium-
resolution game of golf on a tough course.
Mouskattack can be described as Pac-
Man with rats trying to eat a plumber
(you), protected by only two cats. You're
accompanied by some great music.

From Epyx/Automated Simulations
come two new expansion modules for its
Temple of Apshai game. In Curse of Ra
and Upper Reaches of Apshai, you meet
with new treasures — and increasingly in-
teresting ways to die. You'll need the
Temple of Apshai game to use these
modules.

Epyx/Automated also has released two
new games. In Jabbertalky, you play a
set of programmable word games. Star
Warrior pits you as a sole fighter against
entire armies, nuclear installations, and
the like. The graphics are superb on this
game, the action is faster than Apshai
and the playability seems excellent. It's

definitely a game to look at — it's going to
be another classic.

Money Matters, The Installer and Mail
Manager— all from Starware— are three
programs whose operation outruns their
documentation, with the possible excep-
tion of Money Matters. This program, a

The Mail Manager doesn't
really manage mail at all;

rather, it stores and
prints mailing labels, and

does so competently.

home accounting package with check-
book manager, graphics and tax and
budget categories, supports cash flow
analyses and budget scenarios, and has
reporting capabilities. It requires 96K,
and it's a solid alternative to other pack-
ages on the market because of its com-
pleteness and full on-line help facilities.

The Installer enhances WordStar by
configuring it to support the special capa-
bilities on any one of ten popular print-
ers, including the Epson, IDS and NEC
printers.

Enhancing WordStar for your printer
is not particularly tough without the
Installer, if you're familiar with Debug
and your printer manual. But, if you
don't like mucking in machine files, or if
you don't have the time, the Installer is a
quick alternative to let you use the full ca-
pabilities of your printer with WordStar's
special control codes.

The Mail Manager doesn't really man-
age mail at all; rather, it stores and prints
mailing labels, and does so competently.
It supports selective search, and it's quite
flexible about the labels it will print. You
could, for instance, use it quite satisfac-
torily for disk labelling.

The Mail Manager's documentation is
thorough — though unprofessionally pro-
duced — and suitable for beginners.

What's wrong with it is that it doesn't
have instructions or support to import
files from other database managers
(dBase, Data Design, 1-2-3) that operate
under DOS. Thus, Mail Manager blithely
assumes that you don't have an existing
name-address file and you want to make
only mailing labels. If that's your only ap-
plication, fine, but I expect a label-maker
to interact with my other software. □

Circle 313 on Reader Service card.

Software Give Away

Order any package below from your local software dealer, paying the
price shown Get any other package shown for only $7 50 lust fill out
this card and take it to your local dealer

Want more information on this fine IBM PC software 9 Call or write We II send
you two more money saving coupons and a free catalog of over 40 special products

The Artist— Draw lines shapes paint colors move rotate erase reduce
enlarge figures save your screens Packaged with a half dozen other graphics
programs $39

The Electronic Dtok— emulates one or two drives in RAM and survives
program crashes Adds speed and versatility to your PC $49

The Geography Quiz— learn U S geographv on your PC State names
capital cities and largest cities are quizzed $39

Math Drill*— best selling educational math skills package Interesting and
fun to use Help develop elementary math skills $39

PC Kwk— finds bibiographic citations on other entries containing kevwords
you provide then sorts and writes your selected entries to disk or printer $49
With I983 Articles on Computers $69

StockMlnder— Tracks your stocks and advises when to buy sell S49

Multiple Regression— numerically accurate flexible and easy to use
Perfect package for user who needs to run regressions and does not need full
featured statistics software $'>9

Power Planner — color spreadsheet For the user who wants the power of a
spreadsheet but does not like the high price $49

The Mall Manager— full featured mailing list package to prepare maintain
and print mailing lists and labels $39

Sports Trivia — l*> different sports hundreds of questions $39

1983 Articles on Computers— A comprehensive bibliography of hundres of
articles from dozens of magazines Updated monthly indexed and sorte Booklet
$14 w diskette $39

DEALER: Starware will credit your account with the difference between $7 50 and the normal
pricing on the discounted software For details and for fastest service call We ship same dan

STARWARE'

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* When you try our software,
you'll understand our name.

Circle 251 on Reader Service card.

FINALLY

80 x 24 VIDEO DISPLAY
PLUS! CP/M® and 112K

for TRS-80 - MODEL III & I

Other products: MOD. Ill

• "Sprinter III •"

3.4 or 5 mh/ speed up . 99J0
Doubles your speed

• "DISK CONTROLLER/
CLOCK

Batiery-powered clock
calendar, 8" capability, and
double density. Assembled
board only.
3D 229.50

"VID 80 ""

• 80 Character Display

• Reverse video

• 16K added ram

• VX-3, 64K CP/M . . $399.00

• VX-3, CP/M and

Added memory . . . $524.00

DISTRIBUTORS:

CANADA— M&M Micro Mart
Quebec Canada (514) 713-9486

EAST COAST— Bi-Tech

Bohemia, NY (800) 645-1165

MIDWEST— Level IV Products
Livonia, Ml (800) 521-3305

MIDWEST— Soft Sector Marketing
Garden City, Ml (800) 521-6504

SOUTHERN— Digital Distributing
Dallas, TX (214) 330-1332

DEALER INQUIRIES INVITED

HOLMES

ENGINEERING, INC.

L : .<

5175 Green Pine Drive Salt Lake City, Utah 84107
CP/M is a registered trademark of Digital Research

TRS-80 is a registered trademark of Tandy Corporation

One year warranty on all products. Add shipping/handling — $5.00 U.S. and Canada. All
others add 15%. Prices subject to change without notice. For information send self-
addressed stamped envelope. Reader Service takes 8 weeks.

14 Microcomputing, September 1983

At 160 cps, 100% duty cycle, Delta-10 is
built for speed. It's the dot matrix printer that
quickly strikes up an intense working relation-
ship with your computer.

There's no nonsense. Delta-10 performs
with serial and parallel interfaces as standard.
The 8K buffer gives Delta-10 the
power to instantaneously store and
print data as it frees your computer
to continue its job. Turn Delta on [

micro nics*inc

THE POWER BEHIND THE PRINTED WORD.

Computer Peripherals Division
RO. Box 612186. Dallas/Ft. Worth Airport. TX 75261

and it can print three crisp copies simul-
taneously at the continuous speed of
160 cps.

And Delta-10's performance isn't only meas-
ured in swiftness. There's the diversity of its
character fonts, its true descender matrix,

and its underlining ability.
■^ Star's new Delta-10. Designed
^ for red-hot efficiency. And isn't
that what you need?

OVERVIEW

By Frank J. Derfler, Jr.

Mountain Highs

And Knee-tops

Word Processing

In the Rockies

With Tandy, Epson

On the same day that the President
proclaimed National Physical Fitness
month, the air in Washington turned so
foul that you could scarcely see the
Washington Monument from across the
Potomac. I decided to stay physically fit
by leaving the city.

This article is being written at alti-
tudes ranging from 37,000 feet (Boeing
747) to 4000 feet (Montana Rockies). I'm
doing my word processing far from any
commercial power plants, pollution or
foul air.

This month, I'm going to use my Rocky
Mountain vacation to compare the word

Address correspondence to Frank J.
Derfler, Jr., PO Box 691, Herndon, VA
22070.

processing powers of the two "knee-top"
computers I have with me: the Epson
HX-20 and the Tandy 100. They have
very different features, so comparing
them makes a good study on what a truly
portable word processor should do.

Epson HX-20

Microcomputing published a thorough
review of the Epson HX-20 in the April
1983 issue. Until June of this year,
HX-20 users were frustrated by the in-
ability to actually "do" anything with
their machines (aside from programming
in Basic). In June, Epson released its
long-promised word processor for the
HX-20: SkiWriter.

SkiWriter ROM

SkiWriter comes as an 8K ROM that is
installed inside the HX-20 by an Epson
dealer. The installation takes only a
few seconds. The SkiWriter program
then appears as a selection on the HX-20
sign-on menu.

The SkiWriter package isn't as power-
ful as a 50K disk- based program, but it
provides all of the practical features you
would expect in a word processor. You
can enter text in either an overstrike or
an insertion mode. You can delete char-
acters or blocks and move blocks of char-
acters. When you're done editing, you
can print the text with the line width and
margins you specify.

These functions are selected by the use of

IB Microcomputing, September 1983

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The cross-linked oxide coating is unique. It results in a coating that will hold a stronger signal
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eliminates edge damage to the drive access opening resulting in
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For durability, we constructed a disc jacket from extra-stiff vinyl
that loads easier. Glue-sealed to prevent intermittent bonding and
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We added a self-cleaning jacket liner that cleans and removes
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18 Microcomputing, September 1983

specially designated and clearly marked
keys. There are no control codes to re-
member or menus to work through.

Display

The HX-20's greatest limitation is the
size of its screen. It displays only four lines
with 20 characters on each line.

Epson gave the HX-20 the ability to
move its screen over a larger page of text
contained in memory, but SkiWriter
doesn't use this "windowing" capability.
The author of SkiWriter chose instead to
display the text in column form. The pro-
gram wraps complete words down to the
next line when the 20-character limit
is exceeded.

I did not find this limited display width
to be a significant problem, just as you
don't find the words arranged in columns
in newspapers and magazines hard to
read. Although it's difficult to judge the
length of your entire work (there are no
line numbers or cursor coordinate dis-
plays), the screen size did not limit my
continuity of thought.

Printing and Saving

The Epson has two big strengths. Built
into the system are a microcassette re-
corder and a small dot matrix printer.
These two devices are integrated into the
word processing system and operate
smoothly without the need to fumble
with any external controls or cables.

The recorder can save and search for
text files using file numbers you assign.
The rewind and search features are all
built into the program and operate with-
out direct commands from the keyboard.
If you tell the HX-20 to find a file, it auto-
matically rewinds the tape and searches
for the file you want.

The printer uses adding machine tape
and gives high-quality print in a small
space. It would be noisy to use in a public
library, but on the coach class of a 747 in
flight, it didn't disturb the people in the
seats in front of me.

I have an easier time editing and proof-
reading text when it's in printed form
than when it's displayed on a screen.
This little printer allows me to pull off a
quick copy of the text for editing. I usual-
ly make at least two printed drafts for ed-
iting before I send the output to a full-size
printer.

The Epson HX-20 has an RS-232C port
for connection to a modem or to another
computer. It has a separate 4800-baud
serial port for use with Epson serial
printers.

I don't understand why Epson doesn't
provide the commonly used parallel
printer connection, but if you want a full-
size printout, the HX-20 can supply it
through a serial printer. The manual con-
tains listings of short Basic programs
that can vary the baud rate and word
length of the serial ports.

As a bottom line, the HX-20 suits my
knee-top word processing needs perfect-

ly. The ability to easily save text and to
print it in draft is important to my docu-
ment production process.

The Epson, though, doesn't have ev-
erything. If you're more interested in
communicating your text over telephone
lines than you are in printed drafts, or If
you want a bigger display, the new Tan-
dy 100 will attract your attention.

Tandy 100

The Tandy 100 attracts attention wher-
ever it goes. As a general-purpose com-
puter, it has a wide range of capabilities.

The Model 100' s built-in modem and
dialer make it a useful portable terminal
for data communications. The scheduler
and address organizer give the system
interesting executive support capabili-
ties. The word processing power of the
system is, however, probably its most
widely desired portable tool.

Word Processing

The Model 100's word processor al-
ways operates in the insertion mode. You
cannot simply strike over a character or
word to be replaced. You must insert the
correct text and then delete the
undesired material. This means that
correcting text is always a two-step
process.

I had a little trouble learning to use the
delete/backspace key. In its unshifted
mode, it deletes the character to the left of
the cursor. You have to use the shifted
position of this key to get it to remove the
character the cursor is on.

The cursor control keys on the Model
100 are easy to use. The sequence of
controls required to mark and move a
block of text can be learned with only a
few moments of practice, but they aren't
as intuitive as those on the Epson. The
Model 100 displays a designated block of
text with reverse video.

Display

The screen on the Model 100 displays
eight lines of text with 40 characters on a
line. This larger display improves your
ability to check text for continuity and to
carry through with ideas, but it still
doesn't give you a full letter- width dis-
play or show you exactly what your fin-
ished work will look like.

One of the visitors to our Montana
Mountain Lodge was a reading teacher in
elementary school. She pointed out that
the 7%-inch-wide screen on the Model
100 forces you to move your eyes across a
wide area to read a relatively small
amount of text. According to some
reading theories, this eye movement
reduces reading speed and comprehen-
sion. You can choose your reading
theories and, accordingly, your screen to
meet your own needs.

The Model 100 will give you a wide dis-
play of 320 characters. The Epson HX-20
will give you a narrow display of 80 char-

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acters that can be quickly scanned. The
dot matrix character display on the Mod-
el 100 is less dense than the one used on
the Epson HX-20, so the characters are
less than fully formed. The dots are par-
ticularly visible on the curved charac-
ters, such as the C and D.
When you're done creating a docu-

ment on the Model 100, you can leave it
in RAM memory and create a new text
file for your next document. The old file
will remain ready in RAM until it is killed
or until the special memory-keeping ni-
cad battery goes flat. This is less sure
than off-loading the file to a tape, so you
have to decide what level of reliability

You knew it had to come . . .
It was only a matter of time.

From the publisher of the industry's first system-specific
magazine comes a publication designed expressly for users
of the VIC-20 and the
C-64 systems.

Wayne Green Inc.
thinks it's high time that the users of these
two fine machines had a quality magazine they could call
their own, and we're planning to do something about it.
We're gearing up to bring you RUN magazine, dedicated to
making computing more fun and meeting the specific
needs and interests of VIC-20 and C-64 users.

But we need articles for this undertaking, and we need
them now.

RUN magazine will feature introductory articles and tuto-
rials to help the first-time microcomputer owner use his
system . . . programs for the readers to type in . . . reviews of
products. . .unique applications. . .hardware and software
modifications. . .undocumented information about the
Commodore systems ... and programming tips to assist
the user in getting the most out of his system.

So RUN— don't walk— to your nearest mailbox and send
in your article submissions— reviews, tutorials, applica-
tions, programs, hints, modifications— to: Microcomputing,
80 Pine St, Peterborough, N.H. 03458.

and portable convenience you need.

The Tandy Model 100 can interface
with an external tape recorder. You can
use an external tape machine to save
your text files, but this certainly isn't
as convenient as having an internal tape
capability.

If you rely only on RAM storage, you
may be limited in the amount of text you
can save. If you have several data files
saved for the address and other applica-
tions programs, you won't have much
room for text

A 16K Model 100 signs on with 13,254
bytes free. This space is used for all ad-
dress, schedule, Basic and text files.
Obviously, it will fill up fast. You'll have
to make some memory allocation deci-
sions to adjust your ability to either
create a lot of text or to use the other
capabilities of the Tandy 100.

If you want to use all of the features of
the 100, you will have to equip yourself
with an external tape recorder to save
and load data files. The external record-
er, its cables and the manipulations re-
quired to use it, however, detract from
the portability of the Tandy machine.

Head to Head

After spending several weeks using
both of these machines as word process-
ors, I think the Epson gets the nod over
the Tandy for features and usefulness. It
is not as good a general-purpose machine
because it doesn't have as wide a variety
of applications programs available in
ROM, but it has word processing features
that provide excellent flexibility and op-
erating convenience.

The two systems fall into the same
price range. An 8K Tandy 100 lists for
$799 and an 8K RAM expansion costs
$1 19.95. The 16K Epson HX-20 lists for
$795. The microcassette recorder is
$139.95 and the SkiWriter word process-
ing software lists for $129, but they are
often deeply discounted (sometimes free)
if purchased with the HX-20.

The Future

I'm really impressed with the useful-
ness of knee-top micros. I know I get
more return on investment from my
knee-top systems than from any other
microcomputers I own. It's easy to
predict that in 1984, when the 256K
RAM chips become plentiful, knee-top
machines certainly will lead the desktop
computers in unit sales.

The knee-toppers won't get much
smaller than the \W2xSV2 inches the
Epson and Tandy machines occupy.
There are human limits on the minimum
size of display screens and keyboards,
but the availability of larger blocks of
memory in small low-power packages
will multiply the power and usefulness of
these machines many times.

If you travel — or even commute to
work — you probably have some knee-
top power in your future. D

20 Microcomputing, September 1983

New JRT Pascal 4.0 compiles
twice as fast as version 3.0!

Why?— because new 4.0's
compiler's critical components
are fine tuned.

It's like balancing
each part of a stockcar's high-
performance engine; the parts
are still stock, but-balanced-
the engine runs much smoother,
faster.

And that's exactly what
happens with JRT 4.0. You might
call it high-performance Pascal.

lwo ways fast.

1bp features + top performance
made JRT 3.0 the hottest, fastest
compiling Pascal for CP/M*
systems.

Now 4.0 doubles that.

The only thing nearly as fast
is our delivery; within 48 hours
of receiving your check, your
4.0 is in the mail.

And it's available only by mail,
only from Blue Earth. $100.

JRT Pascal 4.0: facilities for formatting printed
reports; file variables & GET/PUT, dynamic
arrays; SEARCH procedures for fast table look-up;
extended CASE statements; random files to 8
megabytes with variable length records; 64K
dynamic strings; activity analyzer prints program
use histogram; enhanced 14 digit BCD Floating
Point arithmetic; true dynamic storage; advanced
assembly interface; fast one-step compiler-no link
needed; efficient compiler needs only 85K dis-
kette space; maximum program size is more than
200,000. lines; more than 200 verbal error mes-
sages; separate compilation of auto-loading exter-
nal procedures; no limits on procedure size,
nesting or recursion; graphing procedures; statis-
tic procedures; 190 -page manual, 8" or 5V<j" disk-
ette. (Optional: Utilities Disk #12 programs. One
neatly formats Pascal programs for printing, the
second is a disk/map repair utility. Requires JRT
Pascal system.)

Enclosed is my check for □ JRT Pascal 4.0 ($100).
□ 4.0 manual only ($40). □ Utilities disk #1 ($50).

(California residents add 6% sales tax. Add 5% for shipping;
outside North America, add $25 for airmail. Checks must be
in U.S. dollars, drawn on a U.S. bank, made to Blue Earth.)

Send □ 8" SSSD diskette.

Send BW diskette for □ Apple CP/M; □ Osborne.

(60K CP/M system required. *CP/M is a Digital Research TM).

NAME

ADDRESS.

CITY.

STATE .

ZIP.

BLUEEARTH

EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR FOR JRT PASCAL 4.0
1891 -23rd Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94122

Microcomputing, September 1983 21

PET-POURRI

By Robert W. Baker

Accessing CBM
Disk Drives

The Secrets

Of 8050/8250

Compatibility

8050/8250 Compatibility

From Mike Todd's column in the May
1983 issue of the ICPUG newsletter
comes information on compatibility be-
tween Commodore's 8050 and 8250 disk
drives.

The 8050 is a single-sided system,
while the 8250 is a double-sided disk.
The relative file structure on the 8050 is
limited to 182K, while the 8250 can, in
theory, use the entire disk to store
relative files. With the 8250. it's possible
to use disks that originally were written
on an 8050, but you should take several
precautions.

The first attempt to access an 8050
disk on an 8250 drive will result in a disk
error, but future accesses will work cor-
rectly. To use relative files on the 8250
drive with an 8050 disk, the 8250 must
be set up to handle unexpanded relative
files by issuing the following command
sequence:

OPEN 15,8,15

PRINT#15, "M-W":CHR$(164);
CHR$(67);CHR$( 1);CHR$(255)
CLOSE 15

Copying relative files from an 8050
disk to an 8250 disk is simple. Enter and
run the above code to disable expanded
relative files. Then, with the 8050 disk in
drive and a formatted 8250 disk in drive
1, copy the relative file in the normal
way, using:

COPY DO,"source-file" TO Dl.
"destination - file"

If you get a disk error on the first at-
tempt, repeat the command. If you did
not access the disk in drive as yet, the
error is expected.

Once the copy is complete, you'll need

Address correspondence to Robert W.
Baker, 15 Windsor Drive, Atco, NJ
08004.

22 Microcomputing, September 1983

to reset the 8250 drive by switching the
unit off and on again. Please don't forget
normal disk safety rules: remove the
disks from the drives before switching
power on or off! After the drives are reset,
put the Demo Disk supplied with the
8250 into drive and the 8250 disk just
used back in drive 1 . Then load and run
the program Expand Relative to com-
plete the conversion.

Copying ordinary files from an 8050
disk to an 8250 disk is also straightfor-
ward, as long as you remember to access
the 8050 disk first to avoid disk errors.
With the original 8050 disk in drive and
an 8250 disk in drive 1, format the 8250
disk in the usual way, using the header
command. Then perform a Catalog DO
and simply copy the entire disk using the
Copy DO To Dl.

Commodore recommends that any
software existing on 8050 disks should
be copied to 8250 format. This works fine
with VisiCalc and WordCraft, but Silicon
Office and Superscript are copy-pro-
tected. You'll have to see your local deal-
er or the program's authors for help on
these and other copy-protected products.

One final difference between the two
disk systems is the error code returned in
DS$ or through the error channel. On the
8250, the error code consists of five items
instead of the usual four found on the
8050. The format is now:

Error # , message-text, track* sector*
drive*

Of course, don't forget that not all disks
suitable for use on the 8050 can be used
on the 8250 drives. Only double-sided,
double-density disks should be used in
the 8250 drives. Since the 8250 records
77 tracks of information, you might want
to use the higher-density, certified disks,
but the normal double-density disks gen-
erally work.

While on the subject, the 4040 family
of Commodore drives work quite well
with normal single-sided, single-density

disks. This includes the 2040. 3040,
4040, 2031, VIC- 1540 and VIC- 1541
drives. The normal industry-standard,
single-density 5V4-inch disk stores only
about 80K of data.

Commodore's special recording tech-
niques put a varying number of blocks on
each track of the disk to record about
180K of data on the same disk. Some
dealers think that you need double-
density disks when they see higher disk
capacities on Commodore drives.

PET Emulator

The PET Emulator software package
for the Commodore-64 allows you to ex-
ecute programs designed for the PET.
The assembly language program modi-
fies the C-64 so that it operates like the
2.0 Basic PET 2001 in most respects.

The modification consists of two parts:
memory reconfiguration and system in-
teraction interpretation. As an added
bonus, you get a copy of the DOS Wedge
included within the Emulator program.

In normal operation, the C-64 stores
Basic programs in the $0800-$9FFF
memory range, and the screen occupies
locations $0400-$0800. The PET stores
Basic programs from $0400-$7FFF,
with the screen occupying locations
$0800-$8FFF. The Emulator reconfig-
ures the C-64 memory so that it dupli-
cates the PET internally. Thus, pokes to
the screen and the program, and other
such direct access operations, work
properly.

Many PET programs access the system
directly with peeks, pokes and waits.
Most of the common locations are inter-
preted by the Emulator and should
operate exactly as they would on the
PET. Any peek at location 50003 to
check the Basic version type is sup-
ported, along with peeks and pokes at lo-
cation 59468 to set upper/lowercase.

All pokes and peeks between $0000
and $03FF are translated by the Emula-
tor when possible. Any pokes that cannot
be interpreted return an Illegal Quantity

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Microcomputing, September 1983 23

Error along with the line number where
the error occurred.

Cassette buffer #2 is also available for
machine code programs, the same as on
the PET. Machine language programs
that do not call system routines in the
ROMs will work with no modifications if
they reside in this cassette buffer.

The CB2 sound is emulated as closely
as possible. Certain high tones avail-
able on the PET cannot be obtained on
the C-64, and the pitch of the tones
varies across the scale. Musical tunes
may not be emulated correctly, but other
sound effects usually sound better un-
der the emulator than they may have on
the PET.

In High Memory

The Emulator loads into the free RAM
area in high memory, starting at $C000.
The code actually starts around loca-
tion $C184 and continues up to about
8C6AE. The area between $C000 and
$C184 is used for working storage and
message text.

During initialization, the program
changes the NMI interrupt vector and the
pointers for the start of Basic text, for the
highest address used by Basic, for the
start of screen memory and for the top of
screen memory. It also sets up the SID
sound chip to emulate the CB2 sound for
PET programs.

In order to interpret Basic programs
"on the fly," the Emulator must modify
the CHRGET routine in low RAM to be
able to intercept Basic commands before
they are executed. This is a simple
technique that was used first to imple-
ment the early versions of the DOS
Wedge that ran on the PET.

The CHRGET routine is always called
by Basic to read the next character in a
Basic command line. By inserting a
Jump instruction in the routine, another
machine language routine like the Emu-
lator can get control every time Basic
tries to read another program command.

In playing with the Emulator, I found
only one program that would not work,
but that program used quite a few pokes
and peeks and fancy techniques. The
majority of programs I tried did work
perfectly without any changes.

The sound effects are still good—
sometimes even better. If you do have a
PET system, you'll love being able to
save on disk or tape programs that can be
loaded and run (or listed) on the PET
without doing any pokes to find the
program.

Emulator Ability

One of the Emulator's nice features is
its ability to toggle the memory con-
figuration and emulation modes. Thus,
once you load the Emulator, you can
switch back and forth between running
C-64 and PET programs without having
to reload the Emulator. Just remember

24 Microcomputing, September 1983

Microperipheral Corp.'s low-cost modem for VIC-20 and Commodore-64 computers.

that whenever you toggle the memory
configuration, any program currently in
memory will be lost.

The only disadvantages in using the
Emulator are that you'll have a slight loss
of program speed and that the screen is
inverted from how the PET would display
things. The C-64 is set up as having black
characters on a white screen with a gray
border. It's nice to look at, but the PET
displays green characters on a black
screen.

By the way, keep in mind that you lose
some RAM space when emulating the
PET. The PET has only 32K of RAM, with
the screen memory just above program
memory. When the C-64 is emulating the
PET, you'll lose the extra 8K of RAM nor-
mally available. However, the Emulator
doesn't steal any program memory
space, since it resides in the unused 4K
RAM space in upper memory.

Don't forget that you also get a copy of
the DOS Wedge program included with
the PET Emulator. The DOS Wedge and
the PET Emulator load as one program.

With the DOS Wedge, you can easily
perform routine disk functions in direct
mode without using the command and
error channel to the disk. You can display
the disk directory without losing your
program in memory and you can ex-
amine disk errors in direct mode. All of
this is done with simple short-form com-
mands that can be used in direct mode or
within your Basic programs. If you have a
VIC- 1541 disk, you shouldn't be without
a copy of the DOS Wedge, either with the
Emulator or a stand-alone copy.

More Commodore-64
Software

Commodore's Speed/Bingo Math car-
tridge lets you have hours of fun while
you build basic math skills at the same
time. Speed Math gives you mathemati-
cal problems in addition, subtraction,
multiplication and division. Some are
hard, some are easy.

The trick is to solve each problem by

filling in a blank with the correct answer
in ten seconds. There are 30 problems
per round; they can be mixed or of one
category.

Bingo Math puts your skills to the ulti-
mate test. This action-packed, two-play-
er game asks you to solve math problems
and use the answers to score Bingo.

A math problem is displayed along
with a number of answers on a "bingo
card." Joysticks or the keyboard are
used to move to the correct value. Once
positioned, press the shift key on your
side of the keyboard to enter your an-
swer. If you get the right answer within
five seconds and beat the opposing
player, you get a marker in that square.
Get five markers in a row for Bingo and
you win.

EasyScript: C-64 WP

EasyScript is a super word processor
for the C-64. Functionally, it's identical
to Superscript (written by Precision Soft-
ware, Ltd.) for PET and CBM systems. If
you remember, I reviewed Superscript in
the March column and mentioned that
EasyScript was coming.

Well, EasyScript has been shipping for
some time, and it's worth looking at.
Early versions were supplied on disk
while the final version will be a cartridge.
The minimum system for using Easy-
Script includes the C-64 plus a VIC
printer (1515, 1525, 1526 or equivalent),
a display monitor or television and a C2N
cassette or VIC- 1541 disk.

EasyScript is almost identical to Super-
Script, except that it makes use of the
added C-64 function keys. The functions
available in both packages are similar.

This is truly a full-function, profes-
sional word processing package that
Commodore plans to market at an excep-
tional price. As its name implies, Easy-
Script is extremely easy to use and will
handle even the toughest word processing
chores.

As I said in my earlier Superscript
review, the documentation from Preci-
sion Software is superb. It's broken up
into training, reference and appendix

GET A GRIP ON ROBOTICS
WITH SAMS.

Grab onto these Sams Books from Mark Robillard and
get a jump on robotics programming.

MICROPROCESSOR BASED ROBOTICS starts by
explaining the mechanics of robot hands, arms and
legs, and leads into tactile, motion and attitude
sensing, even vision systems. Learn system controlling
through microprocessors and BASIC programming,
plus much more. It's an informative non machine-
specific book that is an excellent introductory guide.
No. 22050, $16.95.

HERO 1 : ADVANCED PROGRAMMING &
INTERFACING moves beyond the technical manuals
with a series of advanced experiments and applications.
Discusses machine and robot language, building
and installing both local and remote interfaces,
operating system enhancements, and other select
programming techniques. No. 22 1 65, $ 1 6.95.

Program your own success by ordering
these Sams Books today. Call 800-428-3696 or
317-298-5566 and ask for Operator 445.

SAMS BOOKS AND SOFTWARE

HOWARD W. SAMS & CO., INC.
4300 West 62nd Street • P.O. Box 7092
Indianapolis, IN 46206

HERO 1 is a trademark of the Heath Corporation.

Offer good in USA only and expires 1/31/84 Prices subject to change without notice.
In Canada, contact Lenbrook Electronics, Markham, Ontario L3R 1H2.

Circle 394 on Reader Service card.

AD445

sections, with a useful index and plenty
of examples.

Protecting the Neutral Zone

Neutral Zone, a C-64 cartridge game
from Access Software, is normally sup-
plied on disk or tape, with a protection
"dongle" that plugs into the front joy-
stick connector. A single joystick is re-
quired; it plugs into the second joystick
connector.

The object of the game is to protect
Alpha IV from destruction. Your gunnery
pod has a 360-degree view as your ship
travels through space. Your ship and the
Alpha IV base can take a limited number
of hits from the alien spacecraft; you
must decide whether to concentrate on
stopping the enemy fire or going all out in
your efforts to defend the base ship.

The game can be played by one or two
players, with two players taking turns in-
stead of competing directly. There are
five levels of play, each with an increasing
number of enemy ships to destroy.

Your ability as a commander is ana-
lyzed and computed whether you win or
lose. In order to increase your ranking,
you must be quick as well as accurate.

The program is written in 100 percent
machine language and features smooth
scrolling of the 360-degree panorama. All
action is in 3-D high-resolution, full-color

graphics and fantastic sound effects. In
fact, the graphics displayed by this game
makes it one of the best I've seen for the
C-64. And for you dealers, if left unat-
tended for about a minute, the game will
enter an attract mode and play by itself.
For more information, see your local
dealer or write Access Software, 925 E.
900 S., Salt Lake City, UT 84105.

Misc

Commodore Business Machines re-
cently participated as the exclusive com-
puter sponsor in the 1983 Olympics of
the Mind World Competition held at Cen-
tral Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant,
MI. Commodore provided 20 VIC-20sand
a computer problem for competing stu-
dent teams to solve. Commodore also
provided two 8032 computers for regis-
tration, scheduling and scoring.

Approximately 300 teams represent-
ing schools from across the U.S. partici-
pated in three divisions. About one third
of those participating attempted to solve
the Computer Black Box Problem creat-
ed by Mark Odgers of Commodore. The
first-place teams were: Harry Spence
School (WI) in Division I (elementary
grades), Alice Birney School (SC) in Divi-
sion II (middle school grades) and Revere

High School (OH) in Division III (high
school grades). The coaches of the win-
ning teams were awarded plaques, and
each placing team member received an
Olympics of the Mind medal.

Olympics of the Mind

The Olympics of the Mind Association,
Inc., is a private, nonprofit corporation
with a Board of Directors representing
several states. To participate in the OM
World Competition, a team first must
win local contests. Conceived and orga-
nized in 1978 by Dr. Ted Gourley, Direc-
tor of Gifted Education, New Jersey State
Department of Education, and Dr. C.
Samuel Miklus, professor of Industrial
Education and Technology at Glassboro
State College in New Jersey, the OM pro-
gram is designed to encourage young
people to develop techniques in creative
problem-solving. The program also aids
teachers in enhancing the regular school
curriculum.

Both a long-term and a spontaneous
computer problem will be included as
part of the 1984 competition.

Inexpensive VIC-20, C-64 Modem

The Microperipheral Corp. recently an-
nounced a low-cost modem for VIC-20
and C-64 computers. The unit features

Circle 1 16 on Reader Service card.

Circle 1 15 on Reader Service card.

NO SPEED LIMIT!

Move your software into the fast lane!

Be the king of your keyboard!

How?

SMARTKEY II™ gives you the power to convert any
key to anything you want, as often as you want. In a flash,
one keystroke can recall entire pages of text or execute dif-
ficult, repetitive commands.

You can instantly install all of your special function keys,
no matter the terminal. In addition, our exclusive "super
shift" feature allows you to redefine any key while retaining
its original value.

In short, one key does it all.

SMARTKEY II™ is completely invisible to other soft-
ware. It enhances any program, such as WordStar™,
dBase II™, or Perfect Writer™.

The critics agree!

"Great! Nothing like it!" Peter McWilliams, Author of

"Excellent." Infoworld

"Versatile and reliable." Lifelines

"Works like a charm." Microsystems

"It's a very good friend." Micro Cornucopia

Time is money and SMARTKEY II™ saves you both
. and all for only $89.00

SMARTKEY II™ is the original of its type and has
been on the market for more than two years. Beware of look-
alikes with fewer features and less flexibility.

Ask about SMARTPRINT™, SPOOL/UNSPOOL™,

The Word Processing Book and other fine programs.
To order or obtain more information, call or write to:

HERITAGE SOFTWARE, INC.

2130 S Vermont Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90007 / (213) 737-7252

Dealer inquiries invited.

SMARTKEY II™ runs on computers using standard versions of CP/M-80™. CP/M-86™, PC-DOS™, and

MS-DOS™ Programs copyrighted by FBN Software WordStar™ is a registered trademark of MicroPro, Inc

dBase II™ is a trademark of Ashton-Tate PerfectWriter™ is a trademark of Perfect Software, Inc. CP/M™ is a

trademark of Digital Research PC-DOS™ is a copyright of IBM MS-DOS™ is a trademark of Microsoft.

26 Microcomputing, September 1983

NOW:

RYEAR!

RATE BASE:

130,000

ISSUE DATES:

• Nov. Dec. • May/June

• Jan. /Feb. • July/ Aug.

• Mar./Apr. • Sept./Oct.

The complete publication for
the beginner or inexperienced
computer owner Targeted to
reach the impressive computer
market of the future . . . people
who are planning to buy. . . or
owners of hardware ready to
upgrade. Computers 84 talks to
them in plain language, explaining
your products and suggesting
applications.
For further information, contact:

Ed Knobloch, Advertising Director

1515 Broadway, New York, NY 10036

212-719-6572

A CBS PUBLICATION

both an autodial and autoanswer capabil-
ity. In addition, it has a built-in Centron-
ics-compatible parallel printer port.

The new product, called an AutoPrint-
Microconnection, retails for $149.95 and
is enclosed in an extruded aluminum
case. It operates at 300 baud (Bell 103) in
either originate mode or answer mode,
and it's FCC Type Accepted. The combi-
nation modem and printer interface
plugs directly into the computer without
the need for additional interface devices.
Telecommunications software is provided
in the user manual.

The printer port permits the con-
necting of conventional parallel printers,
such as the Epson and Okidata models.
With the modem connected to the phone
line, the printer will provide hard copy of
whatever appears on the screen. Word
processing software that routes text to
the printer via the modem is available.

The unit measures 5x6x2 inches and
weighs two pounds. For additional infor-
mation, contact The Microperipheral
Corp., 2565 152nd Ave. N.E., Redmond,
WA 98052.

Wall Street Wizardry

(M)agreeable software, inc., recently
released a program called Stock Helper to
aid in tracking the ups and downs of the
stock market. It was designed and writ-
ten by a weekend investor for other week-
end investors; it allows you to maintain
on disk a history of stock prices and
market indicators.

Stock Helper is a menu-driven tool that
displays charts and calculates moving
averages over a 52- week period. Stock
Helper does not give you advice on when
to buy or sell, it only collects and displays
data to help you make your decisions.
Stock Helper's features include:

• Input and editing of up to 52 weeks of
high, low, close and volume data for up to
100 stocks.

• Input templates to match the data
available for the particular stock accord-
ing to its market.

• Input of prices in fractional form
(23 7/8), decimal form (23.88), or in
"eighths" form (23*7).

• Input and editing of up to 52 weeks of
data for up to 20 market indicators.
Types of indicators include advance/de-
clines, averages and volumes.

• Display of price and indicator charts on
a screen or printer, calculating moving
averages for a user-selectable span.

• Splitting of stock prices or editing of
names and symbols.

• Sorting stocks by market and by name,
and sorting indicators by name.

Stock Helper is available for the C-64
and VIC-20. Original pricing was $30 in
the U.S. and $37 in Canada, plus ship-
ping. The software will be supplied only
on disk; no cassette versions are planned.

For more information, write (M)agree-
able software, inc., 5925 Magnolia Lane,
Plymouth, MN 55442.

C-64 Product Guide

Looking for a product resource guide
for your C-64? What's for the 64 is just
that — a book devoted to products avail-
able for use on the C-64. This isn't a mail
order catalog, but a directory of sources
strongly supporting the C-64 in all areas.

There are more than 125 pages listing
programs and software, user groups,
peripherals, interfaces, book titles and
magazines catering to the C-64. There's
also a bibliography of articles and pro-
grams written since the inception of the
C-64. Cost is $15, plus $2 shipping, from
What's for the 64, 3494 Chickasaw Cir-
cle, Lake Worth, FL 33463.

Leading Edge's GX-100P

Leading Edge Products recently an-
nounced its new Gorilla Banana printer
(the GX-100P) for the VIC-20, C-64 and

. . . Commodore released
about 70 software
packages at the Consumer
Electronics Show in Chi-
cago; each package is
priced under $100 retail.

other popular small computer systems.
This 80-column, 5x7 dot matrix printer
has a print speed of 50 characters per sec-
ond. It also has three print modes: normal
print (ten characters per inch), double-
width print (five characters per inch) and
dot-addressable graphics. The GX-100P,
which costs $249, features easy top-rear
paper loading and a tractor feed paper
transport mechanism for 4.5- to ten-inch-
wide forms.

You can even get a graphics cartridge
for the VIC-20 so you can print all the
PET graphics just like on the Com-
modore printer. List price of the graphics
cartridge is $29.95, but you'll also need
the interface cable, which is another
$24.95. These should be available from a
large number of computer dealers; watch
for more details in the coming months.

Newsletter Gossip

From the CHUG June 1983 newsletter
comes word of several changes (which I
hadn't heard of from Commodore) in the
VIC-20.

The latest VIC version uses the same
power supply as that used on the Com-
modore-64, supplying 9 V of ac and +5V
of regulated dc. The 2114 RAM chips
were replaced with CMOS 6116 RAM
chips, with a corresponding drop in
power consumption.

These changes result in a cooler-run-
ning machine and a printed circuit board
that's two inches shorter, front to back.

With less heat being produced, the big
anodized aluminum heat sink was re-
placed with a small sheet-metal cartridge
guide formed around the memory expan-
sion edge connector.

Software News

According to a recent issue of The Wall
Street Journal, Commodore released
about 70 software packages at the Con-
sumer Electronics Show in Chicago;
each package is priced under $ 100 retail.
Many of the programs appear to be those
previously announced at other computer
shows, while there are a few new items
worthy of mention.

The new software includes word pro-
cessors, financial planners, talking
games, a music composer and adventure
games. New educational software in-
cludes a Commodore version of Logo, as
well as new computer-based software to
teach English, math, science and history.

Commodore also is going to offer a low-
priced software product called Magic
Desk. This package appears to compete
with Apple's Lisa office automation pack-
age, with "icons," or color pictures, to
select desired functions.

The program displays full-color pic-
tures of a desk, typewriter, index file,
waste basket and other office equipment.
Simply point to the desired item with an
electronic pointing device and the com-
puter switches to that program function.
For example, by pointing to a file cabinet,
the computer will store material.

Magic Desk is said to begin delivery in
early fall with a price of under $ 100 retail.

Commodore also said it will supply a
version of Multiplan for less than $100
retail. This electronic spreadsheet pro-
gram, developed by Microsoft Corp.
of Bellevue, WA, is heavily used on
IBM PCs. □

Circle 120 on Reader Service card.

Box of 10 3rd Wave
~* Diskettes with

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Microcomputing, September 1983 27

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

In Search

Of a User's Group

I have been a follower of your "What's
New, Big Blue?" column since its incep-
tion in October of last year. I have noticed
your reference to an IBM PC user's group
in New York City. Do you know of any
user's groups here on the west coast, pre-
ferably in San Francisco or even better,
in Santa Rosa?

Richard H. Hull
Santa Rosa, CA

Reply:

Richard, we know of at least one IBM
PC users group in the San Francisco
area. Try contacting James Bunker.
1275 Columbus, San Francisco. CA
94133.

Editors

Aw, Shucks

This letter of appreciation can be
delayed no longer. This morning, as I
used MEMPEEK.BAS (March Microcom-
puting, "What's New, Big Blue?", p. 16)
to find the exact location of a graphics
display, I knew it was time to thank you
for the fine articles in Microcomputing.

Your Text Editor [January Microcom-
puting, "IBM MVP (Most Valuable Pro-
gram)," p. 64] is used daily, even though
I also have Easy Writer, WordStar and
WordMate.

Harold M. Jenkins
Norwalk, CT

Recategorizing Advertising
Suppliers

I am a regular reader of several
computer magazines, including Micro-
computing. I read computer magazines
for two purposes: to find out more infor-
mation about machines that I already use
(via software and hardware articles), and
to find suppliers for various computer
peripherals and software.

The second purpose is more important

28 Microcomputing, September 1983

than the first, as the computer maga-
zines represent what is really the only
up-to-the-minute source of what types of
computer products are currently available.

The problem with using computer
magazines to find suppliers is that every-
thing is too hard to find. The advertisers'
index helps, but who knows what a com-
pany called Xibmic, or something like
that, is actually trying to sell?

What is needed is a product index.
That way, if someone is looking for a
plotter, for example, you can look under
the header for plotters and find the
manufacturers that sell them.

Categories can be broken up further by
listing for which machine the product
is designed. For example, under Disk
Drives, you could have Apple Disk
Drives, Atari Disk Drives, and so on.

Mike Lombard!
Boulder, CO

Reply:

Thanks for the suggestion, Mike. We
plan to implement the idea in future
issues.

Editors

A Quirk in CoCo Basic?

Being an avid TRS-80 Color Computer
fan and user, I found 'The Computer
That Roared" article in your May issue
(p. 82) to be of great interest. More
hardware details on the Dragon would be
interesting.

The author stated that the Dragon and
the Color Computer will not accept de-
fined variables as starting points in
for . . . next loops. The Color Computer
will do so if the "TO" is preceded by a
space or the variable is surrounded by
parentheses.

The following are examples of routines
that will and will not work:
10INPUT"C";C:FORI = CTO10:?I;:NEXT
(This will not work because it needs
space before "TO".)

10 INPUT'C ";C:FORI = C TO10:?I;:NEXT
(This is OK — note space.)
10 INPUT "C";C:FORI = (C)TO10:?I;:NEXT
(This is OK — note parentheses.)

This seems to be a quirk in the Micro-
soft Color Basic in the Color Computer.
The "TO" must be preceded by a
number or a delimiter. In the cases illus-

trated above, the space and the parenthe-
ses are delimiters and create no problem
for the program. The quirk occurs
elsewhere, so to avoid problems in these
areas, you should conform to the follow-
ing when using defined variables:
For . . . to . . . next . . . Step statements —
precede "TO" and "STEP" with a space.
If. . .then. . .else statements — precede
"THEN" and "ELSE" with a space.
On. . goto and On. . . gosub state-
ments—precede "GOTO" and "GOSUB"
with a space.

Please keep in mind that, although the
number 1024 and the statement "&H400"
represent the same value, the statement
"&H400" falls under the same rule as a
variable and must be enclosed in paren-
theses or followed by a space, as in this
example:

10 FORX = &HA000 TO&HBFFF:?CHR$
(PEEK(X));:NEXT
(This is OK — note space.)

I hope this will benefit some of the
CoCo and Dragon users.

Howard B. Culbreth
Tabb, VA

Where Can IBM Users
In Cleveland Go?

An IBM Personal Computer User's
Group has been formed in Cleveland,
OH. Our first meeting was held in No-
vember 1982 with 20 PC users present.
At the January 1983 meeting we
approved a set of by-laws and elected a
board of directors. In February, we
started publishing a monthly newsletter
called PC Chronicles.

We meet at the Beachwood Public Li-
brary on the first Saturday of each month
at 2 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

Our objective is to educate our mem-
bers in the use of the IBM PC and similar
machines. We discuss hardware and
software, each month focusing on a par-
ticular topic. We help the new member
learn how to use his machine.

We also have a book library and a
collection of public domain programs.

We'd like to exchange newsletters with
other PC groups.

Roy McCartney

30704 Roy alview Drive

Willowick, OH 44094

Circle 169 on Reader Service card.

PRODUCTS FOR ATARI* 400/800
FROM ELCOMP

BOOKS:

ATARI BASIC - Learning by Using

An excellent book for the beginner. Many short programs

and learning exercises. All important features of the ATARI

computers are described (screen drawings, special sounds,

keys, paddles, joysticks, specialized screen routines, graphics,

sound applications, peeks, pokes, and special stuff). Also

suggestions are made that challenge you to change and write

program routines.

Order #164 S7.95

Garnet for the ATARI Computer

This book describes advanced programming techniques like
player-missile-graphics and use of the hardware-registers
Contains many ready to run programs in BASIC and one
called GUNFIGHT in machine language.
Order #162 87.95

Programming in 6502 Machine Language on your PET+CBM

2 complete Editor/Assemblers (Source code 3 hexdump +
description plus a powerful machine language monitor
(Hexdump) ).
Order #166 S19.95

How to program your ATARI in 6502 machine language
Introduction to machine language for the BASIC programmer
Order #169 $9 95

SOFTWARE IN BASIC FOR ATARI

Invoice Writing for Small Business
This program makes writing invoices easy. Store your
products in DATA statements with order-number,
description, and price. The program later retrives the
description and price matching to the entered order-
number. The shipping cost and the discount may be
calculated automatically depending on the quantity
ordered or entered manually. The description to the
program tells you how to change the program and
adapt it to your own needs. Comes with a couple of
invoice forms to write your first invoices on to it.
Order #7201 cassette version 829.95

Order #7200 disk version $39.95

Mailing List

This menu driven program allows the small business

man to keep track of vendors and customers. You can

search for a name or address of a certain town or for

an address with a certain note. 50 addresses are put

into one file.

Order #7212 cassette version S19.95

Order #7213 disk version $24.95

Inventory Control

This program is menu driven. It gives you the
following options: read/store data, define items,
entry editing, inventory maintenance (incoming-
outgoing), reports. The products are stored with
inventory number, manufacturer, reorder level,
present level, code number, description.
Order #7214 cassette version $19.95

Order #7215 disk version S24.95

Programs from Book #164

The programs from book no. 164 on cassette. (Book

included)

Order #7100 S29.00

Game Package

Games on cassette. (Bomber, tennis, smart, cannon

fodder, etc.)

Order #7216 ^ . $9.95

micro

Mcin

Microcomputer Hardware
Handbook (845 pages)
Descriptions, pinouts and
specifications of the
most popular micropro-
cessors and support
chips.

A MUST for the hard-
ware buff.

Order-No.
814.95

C5*

Care and Feeding of the Commodore PET

Eight chapters exploring PET hardware. Includes
repair and interfacing information. Programming
tricks and schematics.
Order #150 $9.95

l j M A = ;

Payment: check, money order. VISA, MASTER-
CHARGE, Euroscheck

Orders from outside USA: add 1S% shipping. CA
residents add 6.5% tax

'ATARI is a registered trademark of ATARI Inc.
"VIC 20 is a registered trademark of Commodore

SOFTWARE IN MACHINE LANGUAGE for ATARI
ATMONA-1

This is a machine language monitor that provides you
with the most important commands for programming
in machine-language. Disassemble, dump (hex and
ASCII), change memory location, block transfer, fill
memory block, save and load machine-language pro-
grams, start programs. Printer option via three
different interfaces.

Order #7022 cassette version $19.95

Order # 7023 disk version $24.95

Order #7024 cartridge version $59,00

ATMONA-2

This is a tracer (debugger) that lets you explore the
ATARI RAM/ROM area. You can stop at previously
selected address, opcode, or operand. Also very
valuable in understanding the microprocessor. At
each stop, all registers of the CPU may be changed.
Includes ATMONA-1.

Order #7049 cassette version $49.95

Order #7050 disk version $54.00

ATMAS

Macro-Assembler for ATARI-800/48k. One of the
most powerful editor assemblers on the market.
Versatile editor with scrolling. Up to 17k of source-
Code. Very fast, translates 5k source -code in about 5
seconds. Source code can be saved on disk or cassette.
(Includes ATMONA-1)

Order # 7099 disk version $89.00

Order #7999 cartridge version $129.00

ATAS

Same as ATMAS but without

macro-capability.

Cassette-based.

Order #7098 32k RAM

$49.95

Order #7998 48k RAM

$49.95

ATEXT-1

This word processor is an excellent buy for your
money. It features screen oriented editing, scrolling,
string search (even nested), left and right margin
justification. Over 30 commands. Text can be saved
on disk or cassette.

Order #7210 cassette version $29.95

Order #7216 disk version $34.95

Order #7217 cartridge version $69.00

GUNFIGHT

This game (8k machine-language) needs two joysticks.
Animation and sound. Two cowboys fight against
each other. Comes on a bootable cassette.
Order #7207 $19.95

FORTH for the ATARI

FORTH from Elcomp Publishing, Inc. is an extended
Fig-Forth-version, Editor and I/O package included.
Utility package includes decompiler, sector copy, Hex-
dump (ASCII), ATARI Filehandling, total graphic
and sound, joystick program and player missile.
Extremely powerful!
Order #7055 disk $39.95

Floating point package with trigonometric functions

(0-90°).

Order #7230 disk $29.95

Learn-FORTH from Elcomp Publishing, Inc.

A subset of Fig-Forth for the beginner. On disk

(32k RAM) or on cassette (16k RAM).

Order #7053 $19.95

Expansion boards for the APPLE II

The Custom Apple + Other Mysteries

A complete guide to customizing the
Apple Software und Hardware
Order-No. 680 S24.95

We also stock the boards which are
used in the book "The Custom
Apple . . . " (barebords)
6522 I/O Board No. 605
EPROM Burner No. 607
8K EPROM/RAM Board

No. 609
Prototyping board for the
Apple II No 604

Slot repeater board for the Apple II No. 606

Order two hoards and aet the book free I

S39.00
S49.00

S29.00

S29.00
S49.00

COMING SOON • ORDER NOW !
A Look in the future with your ATARI

(Astrology and how to do your own horoscope on the
ATARI 800. Order No. 171 S9.95

FORTH on the ATARI - Learning by Using
Order No. 170 87.95

ELCOMP PUBLISHING, INC

53 Redrock Lane

Pomona, CA 91766

Phone: (714) 623 8314

Books

Software

for

ATARI

VIC 20

0SI

SINCLAIR

TIMEX

Hardware - ADD-ONS for ATARI

PRINTER INTERFACE

This construction article comes with printed circuit
board and software. You can use the EPSON printer
without the ATARI printer interface. (Works with
game ports 3 and 4).
Order #7211 819.95

RS-232 Interface for your ATARI 400/800

Software with connector and construction article.
Order #7291 S19.95

EPROM BURNER for ATARI 400/800

Works with gameports. No additional power supply

needed. Comes compl. assembled with software

(2716,2732.2532).

Order #7042 8179.00

EPROM BURNER for ATARI 400/800 KIT

Printed circuit board incl. Software and extensive

construction article.

Order #7292 $49.00

EPROM BOARD (CARTRIDGE)

Holds two 4k EPROMs (2532). EPROMs not included.
I Order #7043 829.95

* e

EPROM BOARD KIT

Same as above but bare board only with description.

Order #7224 814.95

ATARI, VIC 20, Sinclair, Timex and OSI

New - for your ATARI 400/800

Astrology and Biorythm for ATARI (cass. or disk).

Order #7223 829.95

Birth control with the ATARI (Knaus Ogino)

Order #7222 cass. or disk 829.95

Books ♦ Software for VIC 20 (requires 3k RAM Exp.)
#4870 Wordprocessor for VIC-20. 8k RAM 819.95
#4883 Mailing List for VIC-20, 16k RAM 814.95 1

# 141 Tricksfor VICs -The VICstory Progr. 89.95
#4880 TICTACVIC 89 95
#4881 GAMEPACK I (3 Games) 814.95
#4885 Dual Joystick Instruction 89.95
INPUT/OUTPUT Programming with your VIC
Order #4886 89.95
#4896 Miniassembler for VIC-20 819.95
#4881 Tennis, Squash, Break 89.95
#4894 Runfill for VIC 89.95
Universal Experimenter Boerd for the VIC-20

(Save money with this great board). This board
plugs right into the expansion slot of the VIC-20.
The board contains a large prototyping area for your
own circuit design and expansion. The construction
article shows you how to buili y~ur own 3k RAM
expander and ROM -board.

Order #4844 $18.95

Software for SINCLAIR ZX 81 and TIMEX 1000
#2399 Machine Language Monitor 89.95

#2398 Mailing List 819.95

Programming in BASIC and machine language with
the ZX-81 (82) or TIMEX 1000.
Order # 1 40 ( book ) 89 .95 1

Books for OSI
#157 The First Book of Ohio 87.95

# 1 58 The Second Book of Ohio 87 .95
#159 The Third Book of Ohio 87.95

# 1 60 The F ourth Book of Oh io 87 .95
#161 The Fifth Book of Ohio 87.95

#151 8K Microsoft BASIC Ref. Man. 89.95

# 1 52 Expansion Handbook for 6502 and 6802 89.95
#153 Microcomputer Appl. Notes 89.95

Complex Sound Generation

New revised applications manual for the Texas
Instruments SN 76477 Complex Sound Generator.
Order #154 $6.95

Small Business Programs Order #156
Complete listings for the business user. Inventory,
Invoice Writing, Mailing List and much more. Intro-
duction to Business Applications. $14.90

Keep Your Selectric Shipshape

If you have an IBM Selectric typewriter hooked up

to your micro, then you'll want to follow these simple repair

and maintenance procedures to get the most out of your

Selectric printer.

By Mark Waller

I had been repairing Selectric type-
writers for IBM for about four
years when the microprocessor was
invented. Many years later, when I
purchased a microcomputer, one of
my first priorities in a printer was
print quality. Because of this, and be-
cause of my background, I bought a
modified Selectric.

My years as a customer engineer
with IBM have taught me some main-
tenance tips and two important ad-
justments that must be made occa-
sionally to keep a Selectric up to
snuff.

Anyone who is using a computer to
drive one of these beasts knows
they're slow— at 120 words per min-
ute, they're being pushed to their me-
chanical limit. And what happens
when you push something to its
limit?

Parts break or wear out on a Selec-
tric just as on any printer. Many have
said that the Selectric isn't built to take
the abuse a computer can give it.

Based on experience, I beg to dif-
fer. The speed limit is a result of tim-
ing—the setting and resetting of
various submechanisms— not on the
quality of the parts. Where reliability
and quality are concerned, the Selec-
tric is among the finest machines
built by American industry.

Dos and Don'ts

Most problems with Selectrics are
caused by normal wear and operator
abuse. Normal wear can be count-

30 Microcomputing, September 1983

ered with a few adjustments. How-
ever, if you insist on repainting your
machine with " white-out' ' or filling it
with erasures, then you're headed for
trouble. But if you connect it to your
computer and leave it alone, except to
feed in paper and set margins, you
should have little trouble.

Your Selectric almost never needs
lubrication, so put your oil can away.
Excessive lubricant traps dirt and dust
and will gobble up even the toughest
moving part.

Your Selectric rarely needs clean-
ing, either. Keep the plastic cover over
it when it is not in use, and the key-
board and the rest of the machine will
stay clean.

You may notice two plastic dust
covers underneath the print carrier.
Keep your hands away from them!
Even if they look dirty, leave them
alone. I realize everyone wants a clean
machine, but a closer look will reveal
the tilt and rotate tapes nearby. If
these are knocked off of their pulleys,
you may damage or break them.
Neither of these parts is much fun to
replace. In fact, a skilled technician
may go through a couple of rotate
tapes before he's done replacing one.

The type element (ball) also needs
little attention. This is because most
high-quality • ribbons are plastic-
backed and will leave no residue on
the element. With some carbon rib-
bons, you may find certain letters fill-
ing in, especially the O and the A. This
may be caused by a high impression

setting— the little red knob next to the
element could be set too high. A set-
ting of 1 gives the lowest impression
and 5 gives the highest.

Not Ribbin'

More frequently, filled-in letters are
the result of cheap ribbon. The back-
ing of the ribbon is perforated by the
letter on the element and becomes
embedded inside the letter, just like a
cookie cutter. Take a pin and gently
pry out the debris, and you're set.

If you use a fabric ribbon, you may
have to clean the element with solu-
tion to get the ink off, but this is rare
on the newer models. Carbon ribbon
produces the finest letter quality, and
fabric ribbon is the least expensive be-
cause the ribbon is printed on over
and over.

An excellent compromise for Selec-
tric lis is the Tech III, a fabric-type rib-
bon that overstrikes as it advances.
The print quality of the Tech III is al-
most as good as carbon.

The Tech III is several times more
expensive than carbon ribbon, but it'll
last months longer. Any office supply
house carries Selectric ribbons.

Occasionally, inexpensive ribbon
can become wrapped around the
spiked driver on a Selectric II. The

Address correspondence to Mark R. Waller, 585
Woodcrest, Springfield, OR 97477.

spike driver advances the ribbon and
is seen directly in front of the print ele-
ment with the ribbon removed.
Should this happen, break open the
ribbon cartridge and pull the old rib-
bon out.

On a Selectric I with carbon ribbon
drive, make sure the ribbon is placed
between the feed rollers, or you'll use
it five times too fast and waste expen-
sive ribbon.

One common complaint dealing
with print quality is dirty print. Often,
this is caused because the multiple
copy control lever is set back. The
copy control lever is on the left rear of
the top cover. The settings are A
through E. Older machines may not
have letters next to the lever.

Move the lever rapidly back and
forth while watching the platen. You
will see that the platen moves with the
lever; this is so the print angle will
change when many sheets of paper
are in the machine. If you have the
copy lever back, you have changed
the angle and the element will strike
the paper slightly at an angle. This will
cause sloppy printing, and the bottom
portion of the letter may print imme-
diately over the selected letter.

No Sheet

It is not recommended that a back-
ing sheet be used. This throwback
from the manual days will cause prob-
lems similar to those previously men-
tioned.

Tilt and rotate adjustments must be
made as the machine wears. When a
letter is depressed on the keyboard or
actuated by the computer, the print el-
ement must tilt and rotate to the pro-
per position.

The timing of this is critical and the
associated adjustments do not have to
be far off to cause a problem. These
malfunctions manifest themselves by
printing portions of letters askew.

Replacing the Print Element

If this occurs, take off the element
and look at the teeth on the underside.
Often, a broken tooth is the culprit.
Do not try to glue the element. It is
under great stress, and when a tooth is
broken, the entire element must be re-
placed.

Newer elements are removed by
lifting the tab on the top. Older
elements have a spring wire release.
Just squeeze the wires together and it
will come off.

Checking the Rotate Adjustment

If the element appears OK, check
the rotate adjustment. To do this, re-
move the cover and place the carrier
in the middle of its range of move-
ment. Then lift the top cover and
reach in on each side and pull the lev-
ers back. (Older models use four
swivel-type brackets accessible after
the bottom cover has been removed.)

Pull the paper release lever for-
ward, and remove the platen by de-
pressing the levers on each end of it.
The levers are between the platen sur-
face and the knob at the end. To
replace the platen, position it and pop
it in. You might try this a couple of
times to get the feel of it.

Under the platen is a long, curved

piece of silver metal called the paper
deflector. Remove this and replace it
with the platen.

Unplug the machine and turn on the
power switch. Next, type the letter T.
Find the metal bar that the print car-
rier moves on, and rotate it toward the
platen. You should be able to turn it
that way only.

Rotate the bar until the element is
close to the platen as it travels through
its movement. You may rotate the bar
back and forth at this point to see
where the closest spot is. This is the
"half-cycle" position.

Continuing the rotation of the bar
causes the print cycle to restore, ready
to print another letter. This hand-cy-
cling simulates actual print operation.
With the element in the half-cycle

Photo 1. The round object in the center of this photo is the element. To its right is the impression control
lever.

Photo 2. With the lowercase J half-cycled, the detent can be seen directly below the slash key.

Microcomputing, September 1983 31

position, the desired character has
been locked into place and is pressing
the ribbon to the paper against the
platen.

The element is positioned by the tilt
and rotate tapes, and then locked in.
In front of the element, to the right, is
the detent lever. Place your right
thumb on the front of the element and
gently try to rotate it. It should have
little "play" (free movement with no
spring tension) to it.

Now take your left index finger and
gently pull the detent lever to the left;
you'll be able to move the element. A
rule of thumb is that the play to the
right should be roughly equal to the
play to the left. To check this, pull the
detent lever.

This adjustment can be seen by
turning the machine around and
removing the platen. When you "half-
cycle" a lowercase J, you'll see the de-
tent slip between the element teeth
under the slash key, which is the
character to the right of the J (see
Photo 2). With the machine in this
position, you can easily determine if
the play is equal to both sides of the
detent.

If you have a rotate problem, you'll
find plenty of play one way but little
the other. This means the element is

Circle 189 on Reader Service card

TRS-80' I

When you buy your
TRS 80™ equipment!

§§ Ise our toll irce number to
£$ check our price before you buy [^
a TRS 80™ . . . anywhere!

Don't Delay. . Call Today

SALES COMPANY

1412 WEST FAIRFIELD DR
PO BOX 8098 PENSACOLA FL 32606
904/438-6607
nationwide 1 800 874 1551 g?

32 Microcomputing, September 1983

not locking in properly during the
print cycle.

Check Tilt

To check the tilt adjustment, take
the print element off and turn the ma-
chine so it's facing you. Then half-
cycle a T.

Pull the detent lever to the left and
check the play of the printhead.
Again, you should have equal play
when you tilt the head both ways
(toward the front and toward the rear

of the Selectric).

So you've discovered a maladjust-
ment; by now, you're sweating and
wondering if this is all worth it. Be-
lieve me, it is. To have a service call to
do this may cost you $75 or more.

The Rotate Adjustment

Rotation is adjusted easily from
under the machine. To get at it, you
need to lift the machine in the bottom
cover. On the left side near the bottom
is the machine release. Gently pull

Photo 3. The machine release lever is directly under the margin bell.

Photo 4. The rotate adjustment turnbuckle is shown. On older models this turnbuckle may be positioned
further to the left.

LINKER

"^SOFTWARE DESCRIPTIONS

TPM (TPM I) - $80 A Z80 only operating system which is
capable of running CP/M programs Includes many features not
found in CP/M such as independent disk directory partitioning for
up to 255 user partitions, space, time and version commands, date
and time, create FCB. chain program, direct disk I/O. abbreviated
commands and more! Available for North Star (either single or
double density). TRS— 80 Model I (offset 4200H) or II. Versafloppy
I. or Tarbell I.

TPM-II - S125 An expanded version of TPM which is fully CP/M
2 2 compatible but still retains the extra features our customers
have come to depend on This version is super FAST Extended
density capability allows over 600K per side on an 8 disk Availa-
ble preconfigured for Versafloppy II (8" or 5"). Epson QX-10.
Osborne II or TRS-80 Model II

Software

CONFIGURATOR I

This package provides all the necessary programs for
customizing TPM for a floppy controller which we do
not support We suggest ordering this on single den-
sity (8SD)

Includes: TPM-II (S125) Sample PIOS (BIOS) SOURCE
(SFREE). MACRO II (S100) LINKER (S80) DEBUG I (S80)
QED (S150) ZEDIT (S50) TOP I (S80) BASIC I (S50) and
BA SIC II (S100)
$815 Value NOW $£&U

CONFIGURATOR II

Includes TPM-II (S125). Sample PIOS (BIOS) SOURCE
(SFREE) MACRO II (S100) MACRO III (S150) LINKER
(S80) DEBUG I (S80) DEBUG II (S100) QSAL (S200) QED
(S150) ZTEL (S80) TOP II (S100) BUSINESS BASIC
($200) and MODEM SOURCE (S40) and DISASSEMBLER

$1485 Value NOW $400

MODEL I PROGRAMMER

This package is only for the TRS-80 Model I Note
These are the ONLY CDL programs available for the
Model I It includes TPM I ($80) BUSINESS BASIC
(S200).MACROI(S80) DEBUG I (S80) ZDDT(S40) ZTEL
(S80). TOP I (S80) and MODEM ($40)
$680 Value NOW $175

— MODEL II PROGRAMMER

This package is only for the TRS-80 Model II
It includes TPM-II (S125) BUSINESS BASIC (S200)
MACRO II (S100) MACRO III (S150) LINKER (S80)
DEBUG I (S80) DEBUG II (S100) QED (S150) ZTEL <S80>
TOP II (S100) ZDDT ($40) ZAPPLE SOURCE (S80)
MODEM (S40) MODEM SOURCE (S40) and DISAS-
SEMBLER (S80)
$1445 Value NOW 5370

BASIC I - S50 a 12K ■ basic interpreter with 7 digit precision

BASIC II S100 A 12 digit precision version of Basic I

BUSINESS BASIC ■ S200 A full disk extended basic with
random or sequential disk file handling and 12 digit precision
(even for TRIG functions) Also includes PRIVACY command to
protect source code fixed and variable record lengths simultane-
ous access to multiple disk files global editing and more'

ACCOUNTING PACKAGE $300 Written in Business
Basic Includes General Ledger Accounts Receivable/Payable
and Payroll Set up for Hazeltine 1500 terminal Minor modifica
Udrvs needed tot other terminals Provided in unprotected source
form

MACRO I - S80 A Z80/8080 assembler which uses CDL/TDL
mnemonics Handles MACROs and generates relocateable code
Includes 14 conditionals 16 listing controls 54 pseudo-ops 11
arithmetic/logical ops local and global symbols linkable module
generation and more'

MACRO II - S100 An improved version of Macro I with
expanded linking capabilities and more listing options Also inter-
nal code has been greatly improved for faster more reliable
operation

MACRO III S150 Anenchanced version of Macro II Internal
buffers have been increased to achieve a significant improvement
in speed of assembly Additional features include line numbers
c/oss reference compressed PRN files form feeds page parity
additional pseudo-ops interna) setting of time and date and
expanded assembly-time data entry

DEVELOPER I

Includes MACRO I
TOP I ($80) BASIC
$440 Value

(S80) DEBUG I ($80) ZEDIT (S50)
(S50) and BASIC II (S100)

N0WS150

DEVELOPER II

Includes: MACRO II (S100). MACRO III (S150). LINKER
(S80). DEBUG I (S80). DEBUG II (S100). BUSINESS BASIC
(S200). QED (S150), TOP II ($100). ZDDT ($40). ZAPPLE
SOURCE ($80). MODEM SOURCE ($40). ZTEL ($80). and
DISASSEMBLER ($80).
$1 280 Value NOW $350

DEVELOPER III

Includes QSAL (S200). QED ($150). BUSINESS BASIC

(S200) ZTEL (S80) and TOP II (S100)

$730 Value NOW $300

COMBO

Includes DEVELOPER II (S1280) ACCOUNTING PACK-
AGE ($300). QSAL (S200) and 6502X (S150)
$1930 Value NOW $500

LINKER - S80 A linking loader for handling the linkable
modules created by the above assemblers

DEBUG I - S80 A tool for debugging Z80 or 8080 code
Disassembles to CDL/TDL mnemonics compatible with above
assemblers Traces code even through ROM Commands include
Calculate Display Examine Fill Goto List Mode Open File Put
Set Wait Tiace and Search

DEBUG II S100 A superset of Debug I Adds Instruction
Interpretei Radix change Set Trap/Conditional display Trace
options and Zap FCB

6502X S150 A 6502 cioss assembler Runs on the Z80 but
assembles 6502 instructions into 6502ob|ect code 1 Similar features
as out Macio assemblers

QSAL S200 A SUPER FAST Z80 assembler Up to 10 times
Inster than conventional assemblers Directly generates code into
meinoiy in one pass but also to offset foi execution in its own
memory space Pascal like structures repeat until if then else
while do begin end. case of Multiple statements per line
special register handling expressions long symbol names auto
and modulai assembly and more 1 This one uses ZILOG Mnemonics

QED - S150 A screen editor which is both FAST and easy to
leain Commands include block delete copy and move to a
named file or within text repeat previous command change
locate find at start of line and numerous cursor and window
movement functions Works with any CRT having clear screen
addressable cursor, clear to end of line, clear to end of screen and
80X24

DISK FORMATS

When ordering software specify which disk format you would like

CODE DESCRIPTION

8SD 8" IBM 3740 Single Density (128 bytes/26 sectors/77 tracks)

8DD 8" Double Density (256 bytes/26 sectors/77 tracks)

8XD 8" CDL Extended Density (1024 bytes/8 sectcr/77 traceks 616K)

5SD 5 25" Single Density (TRS80 Model I. Versafloppy I Tarbell I)

5EP 5 25" Epson Double Density

5PC 5 25" IBM PC Double Density

5XE 5 25" Xerox 820 Single Density

50S 5 25" Osborne Single Density

5ZA 5 25" Z80 Apple (Softcard compatible)

ZTEL - S80 An extensive text editing language and editor
modelled after DEC s TEC0

ZEDIT -S50 A mini text editor Character/line oriented Works
well with hardcopy terminals and is easy to use Includes macro
command capability

TOP I - S80 A Text Output Processor for formatting manuals,
documents etc Interprets commands which are entered into the
text by an editor Commands include justify page number, head-
ing subheading centering and more

TOP II S100 A superset of TOP I Adds embedded control
characters in the file page at a time printing selected portion
punting include/merge files form feed/CRLF option for paging,
instant start up and final page ejection

ZDDT - S40 This is the disk version of our famous Zapple
monitor It will also load hex and relocatable files.

ZAPPLE SOURCE - S80 This is the source to the SMB
ROM version of our famous Zapple monitor It can be used to
create your own custom version or as an example of the features
of our assemblers Must be assembled using one of our assemblers

MODEM - A communication program for file transfer between
systems or using a system as a terminal Based on the user group
version but modified to work with our SMB board or TRS-80
Models I or II You must specify which version you want

MODEM SOURCE • S40 For making your own custom
version Requires one of our Macro Assemblers

DISASSEMBLER - S80 Does bulk disassembly of object
files creating source files which can be assembled by one of our
assemblers

HARDWARE

S-100 — SMB II Bare Board $50. System Monitor Board for
S-100 systems 2 serial ports 2 parallel ports, cassette inter-
face 4K memory (ROM. 2708 EPR0M 2114 RAM) and power
on jump When used with Zapple ROM below, it makes putting
a S-100 system together a snap

Zapple ROM $35. Properly initializes SMB l/ll hardware pro-
vides a powerful debug monitor

IBM PC — Big Blue Z80 board $595. Add Z80 capability to your
IBM Personal Computer Runs CP/M programs but does not
require CP/M or TPM Complete with Z80 CPU. 64K add on
memory, serial port, parallel port time and date clock with
battery backup hard disk interface, and software to attach to
PC DOS and transfer programs Mfr d by QCS
50% Discount on all CDL software ordered at the same time as
a Big Blue (and for the Big Blue)

APPLE II — Chairman Z80 $345. Add Z80 capability to your
Apple ll/ll Plus computer Runs CP/M programs with our
more powerful TPM Includes 64K memory add on (unlike the
competition this is also useable by the 6502/DOS as well as
the Z80) TPM QSAL assembler QED Screen Editor and Busi-
ness Basic Mfr d by AMT Research
Apple Special $175. Buy the Apple Z80 Developer at the same
time as the Chairman and pay only S175 instead of $325

— APPLE Z80 DEVELOPER

Includes 6502X (S150). MACRO II (S100). MACRO III
(S150). QSAL (S200). QED ($150). LINKER ($80). DEBUG I
(S80) DEBUG II (S100) ZDDT ($40) and BUSINESS
BASIC (S200)

VALUE: $1250 NOW $325

S175 when purchased with AMT Chairman" Board

MasifiCard

ORDERING INFORMATION:

VISA/MasterCard/C.O.D.
Call or Write With Ordering
Information..

VISA

OEMS:

Many CDL products are available for
licensing to OEM's. Write to Carl
Galletti with your requirements.

Dealer Inquiries Invited

TPM INFO When ordering TPM I or II in addition to Disk Format please specify one of the following codes

TPM

CODE DESCRIPTION

NSSD/H North Star Single Density for Horizon I/O

NSSD/Z North Star Single Density for Zapple I/O

NSDD/H North Star Double Density for Horizon I/O

NSDD/Z North Star Double Density foi Zapple I/O

TRS80-I TRS-80 Model I (4200H Offset)

TRS80II TRS-80 Model II

VI8 Versafloppy I 8"

VI5 Versafloppy I 5 25"

TPM-II: VII8 Versafloppy II 8' (XD)

VII5 Versafloppy II 5 25'

TRS80II TRS-80 Model II (XD)
Prices and Specifications subject to change without notice
TPM Z80 CP/M TRS80 are trademarks of CDL Zilog DRI and Tandy respectively

For Phone Orders ONLY Call Toll Free...

1(800) 458-3491

Ask For Extension #15

For information and Tech Queries call
(609)599-2146

(Except Pa.)

computer Design Labs

342 Columbus Avenue/Trenton. NJ 08629

Circle 18 on Reader Service card.

Microcomputing, September 1983 33

it toward you.

On both sides of the front of the key-
board are small rods. They're located
in the middle of the tab set and clear
button and the on/off button. Use
these to pull the machine up and for-
ward until it stops sliding in the bot-
tom cover. Then tilt the machine up in
its bottom cover as if you' re opening a
car hood. If this is done properly, the
Selectric will rest upright with no
support.

Toward the lower left of the ma-
chine, you'll see a long, dark rod with
a turnbuckle on it (see Photo 4). The
turnbuckle, held in place by a locknut
on each end, adjusts rotation. Loosen
the two locknuts but hold onto the
turnbuckle at the same time or you
may break the rod. That's just com-
mon sense.

To adjust the turnbuckle, rotate it
one half-turn at a time. Then lower the
machine and check your play. By trial
and error you should find the proper
setting within two turns.

Now check a half-cycled capital T as
well. There should be a balance be-
tween upper- and lowercase letters.
You may have to find a happy medi-
um between them. Don't forget to

tighten the locknuts when you finish.
To replace the machine in its bot-
tom cover, tilt it down and push it
back until it's seated in the two rubber
grommets on the back of each side.
Then push the release lever forward
to lock it.

The Tilt Adjustment

The tilt adjustment is made on the
tilt pulley. This is horizontally mount-
ed just under the right end of the
platen. The tilt pulley has a locknut on
top of it and an adjusting screw on the
side. Loosen the locknut and turn the
screw one half-turn; then relock the
nut and check the tilt play. You should
find the proper setting within two
turns.

Each time an adjustment is checked,
restore the letter by hand instead of
leaving it half-cycled. You also may
want to check the uppercase T. The
adjustments should change little be-
tween cases. You may have to find a
"happy medium" between the two.
There is a balance adjustment for
upper- and lowercase, but it's difficult
to make and it's generally unnecessary.

An even finer adjustment should be

made by checking J and W. These are
the extremes of the tilt positioning.

When you replace the top cover, re-
member to remove the platen and flip
back the margin levers and the red
pointer on the carrier. Replace the
cover and push the cover release lev-
ers back. Flip the margin levers and
pointer down. Put the ribbon back in.
Before you replace the platen, make
sure the paper deflector is seated
properly.

Expendable Secretary

The adjustments I've discussed here
are not factory specifications. The
adjustments on a Selectric are made
within .001 of an inch in some sub-
mechanisms, but, for general pur-
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rough estimates.

I've been using my microcomput-
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manuscript, for the print it turns out is
a thing of beauty. Using the Electric
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TRS-80 and my Selectric II gives me
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Microcomputing, September 1983 35

Say It in Bar Code

Bar none, the use of bar codes to store information

is fast becoming an exciting new technology. This VIC-20

program that turns your printer into a bar code generation

machine is a real bar-gain.

By Joseph Verzino

Recent developments in bar coding,
particularly by supermarkets— the
use of the universal product code
(UPC), bar code labels and bar code
scanners— have spurred tremendous
interest in bar code appHcations. This
article describes a bar code technique
that you can use with any Basic lan-
guage computer and any dot matrix
printer with graphics capability. I
used the VIC-20 with a C-Itoh 8510
ProWriter serial printer attached to the
RS-232 user port. The printer is used
in the bit image graphics mode.

Your printer must be able to print a
vertical line of "dots" to represent a
bar and a vertical line of "no dots" to
represent a space. The program in-
cluded here shows you how to control
the printer to make it behave as a bar
code printer.

The program demonstrates a simple
means of generating and printing a
"straight 2-of-5" (two of the five bars
are wide) bar code representation of

CHARACTER

3
4
5
6
7
8
9
START
STOP

BINARY
CODE

I 2 4 7 P

I I
I I

I I
I I 00

I I

1 I 00
I I
I I

I I

BAR CODE

any number up to ten digits long.

I chose the straight 2-of-5 bar code
because it is an easy code to generate,
and only the numbers to 9 are in the
character set. It is necessary to be able
to print a space, a bar and a wide bar
to generate the bar code of any char-
acter. A wide bar is made by printing
three successive narrow bars. A char-
acter is made up of exactly five bars,
of which two are wide bars.

Bars and Stripes Forever

Table 1 shows the bar codes of the
ten characters and the start and stop
codes. In the binary code representa-
tion, a bar is and a wide bar is 1. All
characters, including the start and
stop characters, start with a bar and
end in a space. This last space is an

intercharacter gap, which could be
made wider if desired.

The start and stop codes are re-
quired by the bar code reader and are
used to let the reader's decoder know
whether the bar code is being scanned
left to right or right to left. All num-
bers must contain a start code at the
left side and a stop code at the right
side. There should also be a Q space
quiet zone) before and after the num-
ber. For example, the number 983 is
generated as Q(START)983 (STOP)Q.

To generate the bar code of a
number, a set of subroutines is used to

Joseph Verzino is a research engineer at the
Syracuse Research Corp., Merrill Lane, Syracuse,
NY 13210.

INITIALIZE

VARIABLES

(10200-10780)

DEFINE

BAR CODES

FOR EACH

CHARACTER

(16200-16820)

SELECT
ENTRY
METHOD
(200-280)

SINGLE ENTRY
(290-300)

ALPHANUMERIC

ARRAY

(400-490)

SERIES
OF NUMBERS
(500-570)

Table 1. Straight 2-of-5 bar code.
36 Microcomputing, September 1983

Fig. la. Main program of functional flowchart for straight 2-of-5 bar code generator.

generate the Q, the start and stop code
and the individual character bar code
setup that specifies 14 print cells in a
character. In Table 1, the 14 cells can
be seen as five blank space cells, three
narrow bar cells and two wide bar ele-
ments of three cell widths each. Note
also in Table 1 that a start code is four
cells wide, while a stop code is six
cells wide. The quiet zone (Q) was pre-
viously defined to be ten cells wide.

A functional flowchart of the pro-
gram with line numbers is shown in
Fig. la. The first step after opening file
2 on port 2 (line 100) is to jump down
to line 10200 to initialize the print
variables. Line 10230 sets the vertical
height of the bars at three lines high. If
your ribbon is old, you may want to
print each line twice to darken the
bars. This is done in line 10235.

Line 10240 establishes the two
string characters for printing a single
vertical bar, B$=CHR$(255), and a
single vertical space, S$=CHR$(0).

If your ribbon is old,

you may want to print each line

twice to darken the bars.

The CHR$(255) sets all eight bits of a
byte to ones (11111111), the vertical
line of "dots," while CHR$(0) sets all
the bits of a byte to zeroes (00000000),
the vertical line of "not dots."

Line 10400 sends CR, LF, ESC,! to
the printer to set up bold (darkened)
print. Line 10600 sends ESC, T, 16 to
eliminate the spaces between lines in
\he vertical direction. Thus, the same
code printed on three successive lines
will touch one another, thereby estab-
lishing the bar code height at three
lines high (remember line 10230).

For purposes of clarity for this arti-
cle, I defined a narrow bar as two ver-
tical lines wide, as in line 10760,
where two B$s are concatenated to
form BN$, a narrow bar. In line 10770,
a wide bar, BW$, is the concatenation
of three narrow bars. In line 10780, a
narrow space, SN$, is the concatena-
tion of two S$ vertical spaces.

After the initialization of the print
variables, the bar codes for each char-
acter are defined by filling the P$ ma-
trix for the characters to 9 in lines

Listing 1. Straight 2-of-5 bar code generator program for the VIC-20.

1 REM STRAIGHT TWO OF FIVE BAR CODE GENERATOR

2 REM J VERZIN0 BOX 263 DEWITT.NY 13214

3 REM THIS PROGRAM GENERATES 2 OF 5 BAR CODES USING A C-ITOH 8519 PRINTER.

4 REM THE HEIGHT OF THE BAR CODE GENERATED IS CONTROLLED BY NV IN LINE 18239

5 REM TO DARKEN THE BAR CODE OUTPUT, NP , IN LINE 18235 MUST BE SET HIGHER.

6 REM THE START AND STOP CODES ARE SUPPLIED BY THE PROGRAM.

7 REM THERE ARE THREE TYPES OF ENTRY:

8 REM

9 REM
19 REM
1 1 REM
CODES.

12 REM

13 REM

S MEANS SINGLE ENTRY, WHERE CODE IS GENERATED AFTER DATA INPUT

A MEANS ARRAY ENTRY. AN ARRAY OF NUMBERS ARE INPUT BEFORE PRINTING

N MEANS INDEXED NUMERIC ENTRY. FIRST, LAST AND INCREMENT ARE ENTERED

14 REM THE 3 SIGN IS USED TO INDICATE END OF ENTRY
38 REM C-ITOH SUITCH SETTINGS

31 REM SW1 2,6,7 CLOSED

32 REM SLI2 1,7,8 CLOSED

33 REM SW3 1 ,3 CLOSED

34 REM SW4 1,3,4,5,8 CLOSED

CODE

44 REM

45 REM

NUMBER

BINARY

58 REM

881 18

51 REM

18881

52 REM

81881

53 REM

1 1889

54 REM

88181

55 REM

18188

56 REM

81 188

57 REM

8881 1

58 REM

18818

5? REM

81818

68 REM

WEIGHTS

1247P

81 REM

BARS=B1

TO B5

82 REM

83 REM

ALL FIVE SPACES

84 REM

2 OF 5

BARS ARE

LACKS) .

SPACES-S. ANY BAR CODE OF A NUMBER HAS THE FORM:

Bl S B2 S B3 S B4 S B5 S

ARE SINGLE WIDTH WHITE CELLS (5

3 BLACK CELLS WIDE, THE OTHER 3

WHITES) .
ARE 1 BLACK

CELL WIDE (9 B

(BINARY)
(BINARY)

85 REM EACH CHARACTER HAS A TOTAL WIDTH OF FOURTEEN CELLS: 5 WHITE, 9 BLACK

86 REM ONLY THE BARS ARE CODED, WITH A 1 -TRIPLE BLACK CELL AND A 8=S INGLE BLACK
CELL.

87 REM THE START CODE IS 4 CELLS WIDE. AND IS:
83 REM THE STOP CODE IS 6 CELLS WIDE, AND IS:
89 REM THE PROGRAM INSERTS THE START AND STOP
98 REM

188 0PEN2 ,2,3,CHR«( 134)

138 G0SUB18288

1 58 REM*************************************************************************

Bl S B2 S, CODED 99
Bl S B2 S , CODED 19
CODES AUTOMATICALLY

298

282

285

218

228

238

248

258

255

268

278

288

298

291

292

293

294

295

388

358

488

485

418

425

427

438

448

445

458

468

478

475

488

498

495

589

595

598

519

512

514

528

538

548

558

555

568

578

888

818

828

858

PRINT CHR*(147) : REM CLEAR SCREEN

PRINT -.PRINT

PR I NT "WHAT ENTRY METHOD? (ENTER CHARACTER)

PRINT" (S) SINGLE ENTRY "s PRINT

PRINT"(A) ARRAY OF NUMERIC CHARACTERS ": PRINT : PRINT

PRINT "(N) SERIES OF NUMBERS" : PRINT : PRINT

INPUT"**ENTER S,A, OR N*«" ; Q*

•.PRINT:

WITH START AND STOP CODES

:IF Q*="S"THEN 298

:IF Q*»"A"THEN 488

:IF Q*="N"THEN 588

:IF Q*»""THEN 248
GOTO 288

PR I NT "ENTER 3 TO STOP"
INPUT"ENTER NUMBER " ;NS
I FN*- " 3"THENCL0SE2 : STOP
G0SUB7828 : REM BREAK N* INTO:

REM N»=NC*( 1 )*NC*(2>* ...♦NC*(L>

G0SUB888 :REM THIS SUBROUTINE PRINTS BAR CODE
G0SUB298

REM*************************************************************************
PR I NT "ENTER EACH NUMBER FOLLOWED BY A RETURN. TYPE 3 WHEN DONE"
1 = 1

INPUT NO*( I )

IF NG*( I )»"3"THEN 438
1-1*1 : GOTO 418
FOR K1-1T0I-1
N«-NQ*(K1 )
PRINTK1 ,N*
G0SUB7828
G0SUB888
NEXTK1
G0SUB7688
CL0SE2
STOP

REM*************************************************************************
PRINT" ENTER FIRST NUMBER, LAST NUMBER , INCREMENT"
INPUT NF,NL,DN
FOR K2-NF TO NL STEP DN
N*=STR*(K2>
L=LEN(N*)
N*=RIGHT*(N*,L-1 )
G0SUB7828
G0SUB888
PRINTK2,N*
NEXT K2
G0SUB7688
CL0SE2
STOP

REM********************************* **•**♦*****♦*■♦ ♦+■♦♦♦♦ ♦♦♦«.♦»♦♦♦♦*♦♦»*♦*.*♦♦♦
REM

REM LINES 988-990 LOAD PRINT ARRAY PPf
REM NL=NUMBER OF CHARACTERS IN NUMBER TO BE BAR CODED

Microcomputing, September 1983 37

16210-16290. Very conveniently, P$(0)
is the print variable for character 0,
P$( 1) is the print variable for character
1, etc. A glance at the binary code at
the end of each line shows the correla-
tion of the Is in the binary code with
the wide bars, BW$, in the print
variable.

The guts of this

(bar code) program are

contained in the subroutine

at lines 7020 and 800.

The next step is to produce a menu
and supply the logic to select an entry
method, lines 200 to 280. If an "S" is
selected, the single entry mode is ac-
tivated in lines 290-300. In this mode,
a number is entered and the printer
starts printing it. When the printing is
done, it asks for a new number.

Entering "@" closes the file and
stops the program. If the "A" is select-
ed, an array of numbers is first en-

Listing 1 continued.

869 REM PP*=ARRAY OF CHARACTERS IN NUMBER TO BE BAR COOED. PP»U) TO PPt ■ ML >

9*0 F0RK=1T0NL

905 : :FORI=0 TO 9

920 : :IF NC*<K)"MtTHENPP*<K)«P* i GOTO ?90

9 40 : I NEXT I

990 NEXT K

99-=' REM******************************************************* ****** ************

1 194 REM

1508 FORI = 1 TON 11 : REM NU LINES VERTICAL

1550 : :F0R J=1T0NP:REM OUERPRINT CODE NP TIMES TO DARKEN PRINTOUT

160 : : GOSUB 7600: REM DELAY

20 PEM****»»****«****»»***»************************-***'* ************* **********

2010 REM

2050 REM LINES 2500-3000 PRINTS A SINGLE LINE OF BARCODE

20 60 REM

2500 : :GOSUB5500 :REM QUIET ZONE IS 20 VERTICAL LINES WIDE

2550 : :G0SUB 5700: REM PRINTS A START CHARACTER

2609 : :FORK=lTONL

2611 : :G0SUB5299 : REM CHAR SETUP

2621 : lP*IHT«2,PP»<K) ; : REM PRINT CHAR BARCODE

2639 : iNCXTK

2959 : :GOSUB 5759: REM PRINTS A STOP CHARACTER

3999 : :G0SUB5599:REM QUIET ZONE IS 29 VERTICAL LINES WIDE

3995 REM********************************** *****************■*■******************'**

3999 : :PRINT#2,CHR*< 13) ; :NEXTJ

3959 PRINT*2,CHR*< 13> CHRt<10)

4999 NEXT I

49 1 9 REM»**************«************** ************* ********* ********************

4020 REM

40 30 REM LINES 4100-490 PRINT NUMBER BELOW BARCODE

40 40 REM

4109 PRINTM2,

4299 GOSUB 7699 : REM DELAY

4699 PRINTM2,

4799 PRINTH2,

4890 PRINTH2, CHR*< 1 3) CHR*< 1 9 )

4391 PRINTM2," ";

4892 FORK=lTONL

4894 PRINTM2." "NC*<K>;

4396 NEXTK

4898 PRINTK2, " " ;

4819 PRINTK2, CHR*< 1 3) CHR*( 1 9 )

4999 GOSUB 7699: REM DELAY

4949 PRINT#2,CHR*< 10>CHR*< 10)CHR*< l0)CHRt<lt) : REM CHR*- 1 > = L INE FEED

4950 RETURN

Circle 246 on Reader Service card.

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38 Microcomputing, September 1983

Circle 396 on Reader Service card.

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Circle 39 on Reader Service card.

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Microcomputing, September 1983 39

tered, then the printer starts printing
them. This is done in lines 400 to 490.
If an "N" is selected, a series of num-
bers is selected by entering a first and
last number and an increment. The
printer then begins printing. This is
done in lines 500 to 570.

Nitty-Gritty

The guts of this program are con-
tained in the subroutines at lines 7020
and 800. The subroutine at 7020 estab-
lishes the length of the string input,
N$. Then it places each character into
the NC$ array with the first character

iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiimiiiniiiiiiiii
iiiiiiiliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiniiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii

llllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll

Bar code with lines uncompressed.

Bar code with lines compressed.

Circle 76 on Reader Service card

Maximum Memory = Maximum Application!

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Expands your VIC to its maximum 32k
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(CA Res add 6% Foreign Orders add S15 for shipping )

10 DAY MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE!

Call or write tor other product intormation
tor Commodore and Timex/Sinclair computers

DEALER INQUIRIES INVITED.

VIC-20* is a Registered Trademark of Commodore Intl.

in NC$(1), etc. If you want to enter
more than a ten-character number,
NC$ must be dimensioned.

The subroutine at 800 actually
prints the bar code. Fig. lb shows the
subroutines accessed by this printing

subroutine.

Lines 900 to 990 fill the character
print array PP$, from PP$(1) to
PP$(NL). Line 1500 starts the DO loop
on the number of vertical lines, and
line 1550 starts the DO loop on the

Listing 1 continued.

5010 REM«#«»*#«»««»»*«#»«««#«#«#**«#*»#««#«»#««««*« ## »#* ## ♦»«♦*****»«*«*»«««»»**
5200 REM CHARACTER SETUP ESC S 0028

5202 PRINT*2,CHR*<27>CHR*(83>CHR*<48>CHR*<48>CHR*<50>CHP*<56> :

5210 RETURN

5310 REM«#*#**«*«««#*#«##»««#»***.«>**««« # ««« ## « ## # # « ######### « #########<>#######

5500 REM QUIET ZONE 10 SPACES

5504 PRINTK2 , CHR*< 27) CHR*< 83>CHR*( 48 ) CHR*( 48 > CHR*< 50 ) CHR*( 48 > ;

5508 FORK=1TO20

PRINT*2,S*;

NEXTK

RETURN

PEr i **»»*♦*♦**♦♦***♦♦♦♦♦**♦♦♦♦**♦♦****»♦.*♦**♦*♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦*♦♦♦**♦♦♦*♦♦.♦.♦.♦*♦* ♦

PEM START CODE

PRI NT*2 , CHRt • 27 » C HR* < 83 • C HR* • 48 > CHRt '

PR I NT * 2 , BN* ♦ Sf it ♦ Bf It ♦ SI J S I

RETURN

REM STOP CODE

PRINT*2,CHR*(27 I CHR* < 83 > C HP* ( 48 > CHRt •

P R I NT * 2 , BUJ I ♦ SN I ♦ Bf 1* ♦ SNt ;

RETURN

REM«»«««»«««««««»««««»««««»«««»««««»»««««»«««««»«««»««««««»««»»«««»»«««« #> 4i

REM GET NUMBER TO CODE

NL=LEN<N*>

F0RI=1T0NL

NCt

IF' NC* < "0" >OR(NCt( I » "?" >THEN PRINT" ERROR" I PR I NT j GOSUB7609 : S0T02tl

NEXT I

RETURN

REM«««*««»»««««««»««»««««»«««*«««»«««««««««««««««««««««tt»«««««»«*«««««»««««

FOR2=1TO2000 :NEXTZ :REM DELA1

RETURN

REM«»«»»«««««««»«««»«»««»»««»««««««»««««««««»»«««««»«««»««»«««««»«»««»«»«««

REM START EACH 39 CODE CHARACTER WITH A SPACE

REM 8 DATA/ 2 STOP BITS/300 BAUD

REM«»«««««»»«»»««««««««««»««««»««»«»««««««««««»«««««««««»«««««««««««««««««

5510
5520
5530

5610

5700
5702
5704
5710
5750
5752
5754
5760
5810

7000

7020

70 30

7040

70 45

7050

7060

7510

76^&

7610

8610

100 95

10100

10190

10 194

1 1 95

10196

10200

10230

10235

10240

PACE

10300

10400
10500
10600

10760
10770
10780
10791
16198
16199
1 620
16210
16215
16220
16230
16240
16250
16260
16270
16280
16290
16820
READY

48> CHRt-: 4t>CHRt< 56

43 'CHR*(49>CHR*< 50 I

REM

REM LINES 10200-10790 SET UP BARS AND SPACES

REM

REM INITIALIZE

NV=3:REM 3 VERTICAL BARS

NP=2 :REM PRINT TWICE TO

B*«CHR*' 255) :S*=CHR*-:00>

DARKEN PRINTOUT

:REM B*=S INGLE VERTICAL BAR,

S*= SINGLE VERTICAL S

(DARKENS PRINTOUT)

REM CR,LF, ESC .BOLD INITIATES BOLD PRINTING

PRINTK2,CHR*< 13>CHR*< 1 > CHR*( 27> CHR*( 33> :

REM ESC, T, 16 ELIMINATE SPACES BETWEEN LINES

PR I NT *2, CHRt- 27 > CHR* < 84) CHR* < 49 > CHR*' 54 > ;

BN*=B*+B*:REM NARROW BAR IS 2 VERTICAL LINES WIDE

BW*=BN*+BN**BN*:REM WIDE BAR (3/1) IS 6 VERTICAL LINES WIDE

SN*-S**S*:REM NARROW SPACE IS 2 VERTICAL LINES WIDE

REM LOAD MATRIX P* (PRINT COOES)

REM«»**«**»*«#**«##*»»«#«#*#«*###«#####*##*##***«*#»»*»#** ♦***♦.** *♦♦♦«#«**

REM FILL MATRIX AND SET UP P* FOR PRINTING

REM

P* ( ) = BN* ♦ 3N* + BN* ♦ SN* ♦ BW* + SN* ♦ BW* ♦ SN* ♦ BN* ♦ SN* :
P* ( 1 ) = BW* ♦ SN* ♦ BN* ♦ SN* ♦ BN* ♦ SN* ♦ BN* ♦ SN* ♦ BW* ♦ SN*
P* ( 2 ) = BN* ♦ SN* ♦ BW* ♦ SN* ♦ Bf 1* ♦ SN* ♦ Bf 4* • SN* ♦ BW* ♦ SN*
P* < :' 3 ) = BW* ♦ SN* + BW* ♦ SN* ♦ BN* ♦ SN* ♦ BN* ♦ SN* ♦ Bt J* ♦ SN*
P* ( 4 ) = BN* ♦ SN* ♦ BN* ♦ SNt + Bi > J* ♦ SN* ♦ BN* ♦ SN* + BW* ♦ Sf -1* : R EM
P*( 5 ) =BW* + SN* + BN* + SN**BW* + SN** BN** SN* + BN*+ SN* : REM
P*( 6 > = BN*+SN* + BW**SN**BW**SN* + BN**SN* + BN*+SN*
P* < 7 ) = BN* + SN* ♦ BN* «• SN* ♦ BN* ♦ SNt ♦ BW* + SN* ♦ BW* ♦ SNt
P* ( 8 ) = BW* + SN* ♦ BN* ♦ SNt ♦ BN* ♦ SN* ♦ BW* ♦ SN* ♦ EC 1* ♦ SN*
P* ( 9 ) = BN* ♦ SN* ♦ BW* ♦ SN* ♦ BN* ♦ SN* ♦ BW* + SNt ♦ BN* ♦ SN*

M* ( ) = " "
M* ( 1 > = " 1 "
M*<2)="2"
M* ', 3 > = " 3 "
M*< 4) = "4"
M* ( 5 ) ■ " 5 "
M* ( 6 ) = " 6 "
M* ( 7 ) = " 7 "
M*<8)="8"
M* ( 9 ) = " 9 "
RETURN

REM
REM
REM
REM

110
10001
01001

1 1000
00101
10100

01 100
011
10010
01010

mini

1 2

4 5 6 7 8 9

PRINT BAR CODES

WITH START/STOP

AND NUMERIC

CHARACTERS

(800-4950)

INDIVIDUAL

CHARACTER BAR

CODE SETUP

(5200-5210)

QUIET

ZONE

(5500-5530)

START/STOP

ASTERISK

(5700-5710)

PUT CHARACTERS
IN ARRAY
(7000-7060)

DELAY
(7600-7610)

Fig. lb. Subroutines for flowchart for straight 2-of-5 bar code generator.

40 Microcomputing, September 1983

Listing 2. Bar code generator program for the KayPro.

STRAIGHT 2 OF 5 BAR CODE GENERATOR KAYPRO 2
J VERZINO BOX 245 DEWITT,NY 13214

USES A C-ITOH 8510 PARALLEL PRINTER

HEIGHT SET BY NV IN LINE 10230

TO DARKEN BAR CODES, INCREASE NP IN 10235

S MEANS SINGLE ENTRY. CODE IS ENTERED RIGHT AFTER DATA INPUT.

A MEANS ARRAY ENTRY. A SET OF NUMBERS ARE ENTERED BEFORE PRINTING STARTS

N MEANS INDEXED ENTRY. F I RST , LAST , INCREMENT ARE ENTERED

THE 3 SIGN IS USED TO INDICATE END OF ENTRY
SWITCH SETTINGS FOR PARALLEL C-ITOH 8510 PRINTER

SU1 2 CLOSED

SU2 6 CLOSED

BINARY CODE

1
2

1 1

100

130

200

20 2

205

210

220

230

240

250

260

270

275

280

285

290

291

292

293

295

300

350

399

400

405

410

425

427

430

440

445

450

460

470

475

490

495

499

500

505

508

510

512

' It

' 110
' 1 10 1
'2 10 1
'3 110
'4 10 1
'5 10 10
'6 110
'7 11

'8 10 10
' ? 110
' UTS 1 2 4 7 P

UIDTH LPRINT 255
DIM N*< 100)
DIM NQ*( 100) ,NC*( 100)

REM «««*«#««««***«#*«•«**»«*«*«*«««««*«**««»«**»«****«**«««*««««*««

GOSUB 10200 'INITIALIZATION

PRINT :PRINT

PRINT-UHAT ENTRY METHOD? (ENTER S,A, OR N) ": PRINT : PRINT

PRINT" <S> SINGLE ENTRY" : PRINT : PRINT

PRINT" (A) ARRAY OF NUMERIC CHARACTERS" t PRINT : PRINT

PRINT" (N) SERIES OF NUMBERS" : PRINT : PRINT

INPUT" ««««*#« ENTER S, A, OR N *********** \ Q%
IF QS="S" THEN 290
IF Q*="A" THEN 400
IF G*="N" THEN 500
IF 0*="" THEN 240

GOTO 200

REM *•*»****#»«•*««*«#********«**••*•**«••*««••««•*««••«••**«*
SINGLE ENTRY METHOD #«#»##»»***»»*»»#*»»**»»*

INPUT "ENTER NUMBER " ;NS

IF N*="3" THEN STOP

GOSUB 7020

GOSUB 800

GOSUB 290

REM «#*«*#«**«*#«*«««*«#«««**«**««««««»«**»««*«*««*««««««««***
ARRAY OF NUMERIC CHARACTERS «#»*»*#**»*«»«*«««*»

PRINT" ENTER EACH NUMBER FOLLOWED BY RETURN. TYPE 3 UHEN DONE"

1 = 1

INPUT NQ*< I )

IF NQ*="3" THEN 430

1=1+1 :GOTO 410

FOR Kl = 1 TO 1-1

N*=NQ*(K1)

PRINT Kl ,NS

GOSUB 7020

GOSUB 800

NEXT Kl

GOSUB 7600

STOP

REM *«#«iNt«*«««*««««««»«**»*««*«*«««******«««*«** «**»*•*«*•***
' SERIES OF NUMBERS «**#*****»•*»*««*««**»*******«*

*, LAST ft. INCREMENT"

STEP DN

PRINT-ENTER FIRST
INPUT NF,NL,DN
FOR K2=NF TO NL
N*=STR*<K2>
L=LEN<N*>
514 N*=RIGHT*<N«,L-1>

520 GOSUB 7020

530 GOSUB 800

540 PRINT K2,N*

550 NEXT K2

555 GOSUB 7600

570 STOP

800 REM

820 REM LINES 900-990

900 FOR K=l TO NL

905 : :FOR I«0 TO 9

920 : :IF NCJ(K)=Mf(I)

940 : :NEXT I

990 NEXT K

1500 FOR I«l TO NV

1550 FOR J»l TO NP

1600 REM: : GOSUB 7600

2050 REM LINES 2500-3000

2500 : : GOSUB 5500

2550 : : GOSUB 5700

2600 : :FOR K«l TO

261 1 : : GOSUB 5200

2621 : :LPRINT PP*<K>;

2630 : :NEXT K

2950 : : GOSUB 5750

3000 : : GOSUB 5500

LOAD PRINT ARRAY PP*

THEN PP*<K)=P*< I) :GOTO 990

PRINTS A SINGLE LINE OF BARCODE

overprinting to darken copy. Line
2500 prints a quiet zone, which is 20
vertical lines.

Line 5504 transmits ESC,S,0020,
which tells the printer that bit image
graphics are coming in the next 20 ver-
tical lines. Lines 5508 to 5520 send 20
successive spaces to the printer. Note
the semicolon after the S$ in line 5510.
The semicolon tells the printer to
"step to the next print position and
wait until I tell you what to print."

Thus, at line 5530 upon returning,
the printhead sits on the 21st vertical
line position awaiting instructions on
what to print.

Now, back up to line 2550, where we
jump to 5700 to print a start code. Line
5702 sends ESC,S,0008 to set up eight
positions of bit image graphics. Line
5704 sends the concatenated start
code— narrow bar, narrow space, nar-
row bar, narrow space. The printhead
now sits at the 29th position, awaiting
the first characters' bar code.

Now back to line 2600, where, from
2600 to 2630, a DO loop prints the NL
bar codes of the NL characters in N$.
Line 2950 prints the stop code, and
line 3000 puts a quiet zone on the right
side. Lines 4030 to 4940 print the
numbers below the bar code. I

Circle 283 on Reader Service card.

TRANSFER

"BASIC DATA EXCHANGE"

DISKETTES

MAINFRAME

to/from

CBM/PET

PEDISK Model 877 is an 8' SD floppy disk system that uses
the IBM 3740 tormat Using FILEX a program by Wilserve.
PEDISK 877 can read and write records on a Basic Data
Exchange" diskette Routines read the table of contents
Records are read and converted from EBCDIC TO ASCII
Records can be converted from ASCII to EBCDIC and recorded
Multiple volume files can be handled and FILEX even has
facilities to soft format a new diskette The FILEX program
resides on ROM

8" ( jiskii ) "SiT

877-1 Single drive system. . . $ 995.00
877-2 Dual drive system $1695.00

PEDISK 87 7 also provides a high performance general floppy
disk for any Commodore system Its simple design gives
greater reliability and it offers much faster performance than
the IEEE type drives A considerable amount of standard
software is available Eight inch SD CPM (trademark of Digital
Research) diskettes can also be read/written with the 877
system A complete CPM system using the Z RAM (trademark
of Madison Computer) can exchange standard CPM diskettes

floppy
disk

5" C

or-

540-1 Single drive system. . . $ 595.00
540-2 Dual drive system $ 895.00

SEE YOUR DEALER OR

^ PO Box 102
H J Langhorne. Pa 19047

— •* 215-757-0284

PEDISK AVAILABLE for
40XX, 8032, C64

DEALER INQUIRIES INVITED

Microcomputing, September 1983 41

Circle 325 on Reader Service card.

— Z? l ^r ET^ ■■■? U SB

305 5B7 1 1 30
MOW OPEN BAT.
1 0:00 to 3:00 EST.

1 B003S7-1 Ol 3

RIBBONS

EPSON ~x.o, 4.» s ea.
Cartridges Mm. 3

'»— 7. 9B EA.
Cartridges Mm. 3

■

DIABLO
Cartridge*

Mm 3

Circle 51 on Reader Service card.

COACHES

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scouting reports into the computer, print reports
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Disk only, $39.50

AVAILABLE FOR:

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SCHOOL PURCHASE ORDERS WELCOME.
Add $2.00 per disk for shipping and handling.

MIDWEST SOFTWARE

Box 214 • Farmington, Ml 48024
(313) 477-0897 (4:00 pm to 1 1 :00 pm)

Listing 2 continued.

iLPRINT

3900

3950

4000

4020

4030

4200

4800

4801

4802

4804

4806

4808

4810

4900

4940

4945

4950

5200

5202

5210

5500

5504

5508

5510

5520

5530

5700

5702

5704

5710

5750

5752

5754

5760

7000

7020

7030

7040

7045

7050

7060

7600

7610

10095

10200

10230

10235

10240

10400

10600

10760

10770

10780

16200

16210

16220

16230

16240

16250

16260

16270

16280

16290

16820

BELOW CODE

CHR*< 27>CHRS< 83>CHR*< 48) CHR*< 48) CHR*< 50 >CHR*< 56)

CHR*<13> ; :NEXT J
LPRINT CHR*<13) CHRS(IO);
NEXT I
REM

REM 4100-4900 PRINT ALPr¥*IUMERI CS
REM GOSUB 7600
LPRINT
LPRINT" ";
FOR K=l TO NL
LPRINT • "NCSCK) ;
NEXT K

LPRINT" ";
LPRINT CHR*<13)CHR*<10)
GOSUB 7600

LPRINT CHR*<10)CHR*<10)CHR*<10)CHR*< 10)
LPRINT CHR*<10)CHR*(10)CHR*<10)
RETURN
REM
LPRINT
RETURN
REM QUIET

LPRINT CHR*< 27)CHR*< 83)CHR*< 48) CHR*< 48) CHR*< 50 )CHRS< 48)
FOR K=l TO 20
LPRINT S*;
NEXT K
RETURN
REM
LPRINT
LPRINT
RETURN
REM
LPRINT
LPRINT
RETURN

REM GET NUMBER
NL-LEN<N*)
FOR 1=1 TO NL
NCS<I)=MID*<N*
IF<NC*<I )<"0")
NEXT I
RETURN

FOR Z=l TO 2000:NEXT Z
RETURN

REM

REM INITIALIZE

NV=3

NP-1

B*=CHRS<255> :S*=CHR«<0>

LPRINT CHR*< 13)CHRS< 1 )CHR*< 27>CHR*< 33) j

LPRINT CHR**<27)CHR«(84)CHRS(49)CHR*»<54) ;

BN*=B*+BS

SNS=S*+S*

M*<0) = "0" :PS<0>*Bls»*+Sm+BN**SN*+BW**Shl* + BW**SW*BNS*SN*
M*< 1 ) = " 1 " :P*< 1 )=BUS+SN*+BW+SN*+Br>IS+S!sl*+BN*+SN*+BU*+SN*
M*(2) = "2" :P%<2)=BN**SN%+BU%*SN%*BN**SN%+BN%+SN*+BU%+SN*
M*<3>="3" :PS(3)«BU*+SNS+BU*+SN*+BN*+SN*+Br*+ShJ*+BN**SN*
M*<4)="4" :P»<4)=BN*+SN*+Bh**SN*+BW*+SNr*+BW + Sm*BW*+SNS
M*<5>="5" iP*<5)=BU%+SN*+BN%+SN%+BU% + SN%+BN%*Sht%+BN**SN*
M*<6)«'6" :P%<6>=EN%+SN%+EU%+SN%*BU* + SN* + BN*+SN*+BN%*SN%
M*<7)="7" :PS(7)«BNS+Sh»+Bhl»+SNt»+BNS+SNt»+BW*+SN*+BWS*SN»
M*<8>="8" :P*(8)»BUt^SN*+BW+Sm+BW+SN* + BU**SNS*BN*+SNS
M*<9)»"9" :P*(9)=BN«+SN»+BU*+SN»+BNS+SN*+BW»+SN**BN»+SN»
RETURN

CHR*<27)CHR*<83)CHR*<48)CHR*<48)CHR*<48>CHR*<56> ;

BN*+SN*+BN*+SN*;

CHR*<27)CHR*<83)CHR*<48>CHR*<48>CHR*<49>CHR*<50) j
BUS + SN* ♦ BN* ♦ SN* ;

TO CODE

,1,1)
OR <NC*>"9"> THEN PR I NT" ERROR ": PRINT : GOSUB 7600:60TO 200

III

Circle 329 on Reader Service card.

Since 1978

^ C~M~

Micro Management
Systems, Inc.

2803 Thomasville Road East

Cairo, Georgia 31728

(912) 377-7120

TELEMARKETING WORKS FOR YOU

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WRITE

MICRO MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

TELEMARKET DEPT. NO. 7
2803 THOMASVILLE RD E • CAIRO. GA. 31728

42 Microcomputing, September 1983

3702 N. Wells St.

D&N MICRO PRODUCTS, INC. For \ w Ar/J n ^ 6808

TERMS $3.00 shipping, Foreign orders add 15%, Indiana residents add 5% sales tax.

(219)484-6414

COMPUTER

MICRO-80 COMPUTER

Z-80A CPU with 4Mhz clock and
CP/M 2.2 operating system. 64K
low power static memory. Cen-
tronics parallel printer port. 3 serial
ports. 4" cooling fan. Two 8" single
or double sided floppy disk drives.
IBM single density 3740 format for
243K or storage, double density
format for604K of storage. Double
sided drives allow 1.2 meg on
each drive. Satin finish extruded
aluminum with vinyl woodgrain
decorative finish. 8 slot backplane,
48 pin buss compatible with OSI
boards.
MODEL 80-1 200 $2995

2 8" Single sided drives
MODEL 80-2400 $3495

2 8" Double sided drives

MlCRO-65 COMPUTER

6502 CPU with 2Mhz clock and
DOS-65 operating system. 48K of
low power static memory. 2 serial
ports and 1 Centronics parallel
port. 2 8" single or double sided
drives. Satin finish extruded
aluminum with vinyl woodgrain
finish. 8 slot backplane, 48 pin buss
compatible with OSI. Will run OSI
65D and 65U software. Includes
Basic E/65 a compiled BASIC for
6502 CPU.
MODEL 65-1 $2995

2 8" Single sided drives
MODEL 65-2 $3495

2 8" Double sided drives

BP-580 8 Slot Backplane $ 47

OSf 48 pin Buss compatible
MEM-CM9 MEMORY/
FLOPPY CONTROLLER

24K memory/floppy controller card
uses 2114 memory chips, 1 8Kand
1 16K partition. Supports OSI type
disk interface

24MEM-CM9 $325

16MEM-CM9 $260

8MEM-CM9 $180

BAREMEM-CM9 $ 50

Controller on assembled unit
add $ 90

BIO-1600 Bare IO card $ 50

Supports 8K of memory, 2 16 bit
parallel ports, 5 serial ports,
with manual and Molex
connectors.

Circle 293 on Reader Service card.

PRINTERS

Okidata
ML82A,120cps,10" .$409

ML83A,120cps,15" .$895

ML84 Parallel, 200 caps, 15". $1150

C. loth
8510APProwriter, parallel ...$419

120 cps, correspondence quality

8510APDProwriter, serial $585

F10-40PU Starwriter, parallel $1319

Letter quality daisy wheel
F10-40RU Starwriter, serial . . $1319
F10-55PUPrintmaster $1610

parallel, Letter quality daisy

wheel
F10-55RU Printmaster, serial $1610

DISK DRIVES AND CABLES
8"ShugartSA801 $385

single sided
8"ShugartSA851 $585

double sided
FLC-66 ft cable from D&N $69

or OSI disk controller to 8" drive
5 1 / 4 " MPI B51 disk drive with .. $450

cable, power supply and

cabinet. Specify computer type.
FLC-5V4 cable for connection .$75

to 5 1 /4 drive and D&N or OSI

controller, with data separator

and disk switch. Specify

computer type

HARDWARE

OSI COMPATIBLE

IO-CA1 OX Serial Printer Port. .$125

Specify Device #3 or #8
IO-CA9 Parallel Printer Port . . $1 50
CMOS-MEM

64K CMOS static memory board,
uses 6116 chips, 3 16K, 1 8K and 2
4K blocks, Partitionable for multi-
user, OSI type disk controller, 2 IO
mapped serial ports for use with
D&N-80 CPU. Ideal way to upgrade
from cassette to disk.

64KCMOS-MEM $500

48K CMOS-MEM $405

24KCMOS-MEM $260

16K CMOS-MEM $210

BARECMOS-MEM $ 50

Controller add.$ 90

2 IO mapped serial ports add. $125

on assembled memory board
Z80-IO 2 IO mapped serial $160

ports for use with D&N-80 CPU

card
FL470 Disk Controller $155

Specify 5% or 8" drive

STANDARD
CP/M FOR OSI

D&N-80 CPU CARD

The D&N-80 CPU allows the owner
of an OSI static memory computer
to convert to Industrial Standard
IBM 3740 single density disk for-
mat and CP/M operating system.
Double density disk operation is
also supported for 608K of storage
on an 8" diskette. When used with
a 5 Va " disk system 200K of storage
is provided. Optional parallel
printer and real time clock. Also
available for polled keyboard and
video systems. Compatible with
C2, C3, C4 and 200 series OSI com-
puters.

INCLUDES CP/M 2.2
D&N-80-1 Serial 8" disk $595
D&N-80-2 Video 5 Va" disk $595
D&N-80-3 Video 8" disk $595
Option 001 $ 60

Parallel printer and

real time clock.

HARD DISK DRIVER $140

Allows D&N-80 CPU board to con-
trol OSI 40 or 80 meg hard disk unit.
Will not destroy OSI files. Will also
allow for a true 56K CP/M system.
Specify 40 or 80 meg drive.
BUSS TRANSFER $135

Allows for D&N-80 and OSI CPU to
be in the computer at the same
time. Toggle switch provides for
alternate CPU operation.
DISKTRANSFER $100

Utility program to transfer OSI
CP/M format disk to IBM 3740
single density format. Will also
transfer IBM to OSI format.
SYSTEM HARDWARE
REQUIREMENTS
D&N-80 CPU, D&N FL470 or OSI
470 controller, 48K memory at
0000-BFFF, 4K memory at D000--
DFFF, two disk drive cables.
FORMATTRANSFER $15

You supply software on 8" diskette
D&N will transfer OSI CP/M format
to IBM 3740 CP/M format. Can also
transfer IBM 3740 CP/M format to
OSI CP/M format. Original diskette
returned.

Microcomputing, September 1983 43

TS-1000 Road Maps

For the Weary Traveler

These handy subroutines put you behind the wheel

of your micro machine.

By W. R. Henry

Listing 1. Snake Game for the TS-1000.

5 CLS

10 PRTNT"Pl \Cf YOUR BETS ON THF SNAKE."

1 2 PRINT"NUMBI RS 1 THRU 15 M

20 PAU5I ?00

30 CLS

*f() Lf T N INT (RND*60+1 )

50 FOR \ TO N STI P .2

bb SCROLL

60 LET V= C0S(2*A) +SIN(A)

70 PRINT TAB(7*Y+1<0;"*;* M

SO Nf XT A

90 LET B = INT(RND*15+1 )

100 PRINT AT ?1,0;"SNAKF STOPS AT M ;B;

»i .

;»; "WINS"

i i o PAusr ?oo

1?0 CLS

1 30 GOTO 10

1^0 RIM" Lino 4-0 sots random point on soreen

To print leading edge of snake."
1 bO Rl M" Lino 50 sets sequenee of positioning

snake from right to left in increments."
160 REM" Line *> b Scrolls display for illusion

of movement of snake."
170 RIM" I ine 60- The formula for a sine wave

using a vertical ,ixi s to keep snake

printed within screen display limits."
180 RLM" Line 70-Prints characters along path

of stored sine wave pattern."

190 REM" Line 80-Closes the F0R/NFXT loop to
Microcomputing, September 1983

The increasing hordes of new Ti-
mex-Sinclair 1000 computer users
are not primarily interested in pro-
gramming. Like the new car owner,
they just want to "get in and drive."
But it isn't that simple, for there still
exists a dearth of software and a lack
of easily understandable instructions
on getting this simple but versatile
machine up and working.

Manuals accompany the computer
and are excellent as far as they go. But,
although they are good for referencing
when you are stuck with a particular
problem, they just don't give enough
specific examples to make the new
user comfortable.

Driving Practice

The following subroutines are
designed to help you, the new owner
of a TS-1000, feel at ease in the
driver's seat.

Since many users will be faced with
the inevitable question, "Daddy, can
it play games?", here's a simple bet-
ting game based on the selection of a
random number, with graphics to
grab the youngster. (See Listing 1—
Snake Game.) The Remarks state-
ments are included to explain what
each statement causes the computer
to do. (One of my neighbor's children
was so fascinated by the snake wrig-
gling down the screen that he watched
quietly for an hour.)

Address correspondence to W.R. Henry, 335
Lakeshore Drive, Daytona Beach, FL 32014.

Circle 31 1 on Reader Service card.

Listing 1 continued.

repeat the process in the loop."
200 REM" Line 90-The random sequence that

determines winning number."
210 REM" Line 100-Prints winning number
220 REM" Line 130-Causes computer to rerun

•the program for next game."
230 REM" HIT THE BREAK KEY OR PULL PLUG TO

STOP THE GAME."

5 PRINT"TELEPHONE NUMBERS"

10 INPUT N$ 'Input 1st data line

20 PRINT N$ 'Print the input

30 IE N$="30NES" THEN PR INT "904- 322 = 1 51 7"

'Match Name to Phone //
40 IE N$="SMITH" THEN PR INT"904-761 - 18 1 8"

•Match Name to Phone //"
50 IE N$="NAME 3" THEN PRINT "PHONE //3"
60 IE N$="NAME V THEN PRINT "PHONE //4"
70 REM "The above can be continued as

required for all names needed."
Listing 2. Data bank program from Byting Deeper in Your Sinclair

Timex John Wiley & Sons, Inc.), by Mark Harrison.

5 E0R P=l TO 70

10 E0R A = 1 TO 10

20 PRINT CHR$(A);

30 NEXT A

40 NEXT P

50 CLS

60 LET 3 = INT(1+RND*5)

70 EOR N = 1 TO 335

80 EOR A = 3 TO 138 STEP 128

90 PRINT CHR$(A);

100 NEXT A

120 NEXT N

130 CLS
140 GOTO 5

150 REM"Note that when RUN, the first
pattern repeats, the patterns
change from then on. Look at
Line 60 to see why."

Listing 3. Simple graphics output program for the TS-1000.

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Card No

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Phone

Disk? (y/n)

Microcomputing, September 1983 45

Next, let's try a practical use— a sim-
ple data bank (see Listing 2) for dis-
play of often needed information. A
sophisticated database management
program it is not. However, it is prac-
tical and adaptable for many uses-
birthdays, anniversaries, appoint-
ments or whatever. (The program in
Listing 2 is from the book Byteing
Deeper Into Your Sinclair Timex 1000,
by Mark Harrison. Used by permis-
sion of John Wiley & Sons, Inc.)

Now, just for fun, let's explore one
function of the Sinclair. This will
prove to you how a relatively simple
program can generate a lot of output
or display on the TV screen. Let's
choose the Random Number Function
(RND), hook it up to a few graphics
characters and see what happens. (See
Listing 3.)

All you have done here is instruct
the computer to make a random se-
lection of graphics characters, display
them, reprint them a specified num-
ber of times, clear the display and
then repeat the whole process again.
When you analyze the program line
by line, you can see how simple it is.
Try it; you'll like it!

As long as you've gotten your feet
wet with graphics, why not try an-
other short routine to print lines on
the screen? (See Listing 4.) Here, we
have the computer print the first line;
then we plug this command into a re-
peating loop, and the Sinclair does
the rest.

Down Memory Lane

For those of you who are technically
minded, it's always confidence-build-

ing to know how your machine oper-
ates. I won't give you a technical de-
scription of the architecture of the Sin-
clair chips, the integrated circuits used
or how the chips perform their magic.
We'll leave that to the technical writ-
ers. I'm going to talk about memory
storage, or the Sinclair "stack."

Hopefully, after reading and trying
what follows, you will become as fa-
miliar with this stack as you are with
your own clothes closet. Thus, you
will be able to pick any "suit' ' out of it
that you need to fit the occasion.

With Fig. 1 for reference, enter the
program in Listing 5 into the comput-
er and run it. Notice anything interest-
ing? Sure you do. Now you know

where in the stack, or memory, the
computer stores your programs.

The computer displays the address
of each element or byte of each pro-
gram line by showing the contents of
each item stored at each address. No-
tice that it starts and ends at a speci-
fied address. That is how the stack
keeps its cool. It has a place for every
bit of information, it stores it there and
keeps everything neat and orderly for
instant access.

Everything a computer does, it does
by the numbers. At each address in
memory (except unused or unfilled
memory cells), there resides a num-
ber. This number is a code that desig-
nates a letter, a number, a graphics

Don't Poke
this area

Can be Poked
and Peeked

Address

Contents

ROM (Read
Only Memory)

RAM (Random
Access Memory)
Your programs
are entered
in this area.

0000

8K Basic Interpreter
and Monitor

8192

Unused

16384

User Memory

17408
32767

Expansion Area

Fig. 1. TheZX-81 "stack," or memory.

Listing 4. TS-1000 line-printing routine.
5 RFM "Program prints various types of 1 ines."

8 C L S ( More

Circle 318 on Reader Service card.

The Modem that Delivers 3 Ways

1. LOW $189 Price. TNWs Operator-103™provides full auto-dial
and auto-answer capabilities for only $189. This is an attractively pack-
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complete with documentation and full one-year warranty.

2. EdSG Of USG. Operator's commands are easy to remember, like
"Dial;' "Answer;' and Hangup." And they're easy to enter — you type
only the first letter of the command, and Operator echoes the full com-
mand word. Type"?" and Operator lists your command options.

3. High LSI Performance/Reliability, operator -103 is bunt

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TNW

CORPORATION

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Phone (619) 296-2115
Telex II 910-335-1194

46 Microcomputing, September 1983

Circle 273 on Reader Service card.

Circle 26 on Reader Service card.

S-100 MEMORY
FLEXIBILITY!

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• PARTITION BUFFERING (1 6K DMA buffer bank)

• IEEE 696/S-1 00 compatible

• 8 and/or 1 6 bit transfers - 24 bit extended addressing

• 2K X 8 CMOS memories compatible with 271 6 EPROMS

• CMOS 1 50 ns RAM standard - 8 megahertz speed

• LOW power consumption - less than 3 watts

• Arranged as 4 independent 1 6K X 8 (or 8K X 1 6) banks

• Each bank addressable on any 1 6K boundary

• Deselect in 2K byte increments for each 1 6K bank

New PARTITIONING BUFFERING allows one 16K bank to be accessed in
normal CPU space AN D an extended address window for disk- track buffering or
printer buffering.

LITHIUM BATTERY BACKUP OPTION: Unique POWER-FAIL-SENSE
circuit tells processor when bus power is failing, then disables WRITE
Lithium Battery retains memory contents for up to a year. Avoids
MEMORY CRASHES due to power failure. ($39)

All memory access features operate simultaneously. The memory may be
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* Special introductory offer good fora limited time only. Retail
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Microcomputing, September 1983 47

Circle 78 on Reader Service card.

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Phoenix, Arizona 85029

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48 Microcomputing, September 1983

Listing 4 continued.

10 FOR P=l TO 31 'Sets how many characters
20 PRINT CHR$(2 7 ). 'Selects Character to print

30 NEXT P ■ Closes loop-Do it again

40 FOR N =1 TO 31

50 PRINT CHR$(22).

60 NEXT N

70 FOR P=l TO 31

80 PRINT CHR$(131 );

90 NEXT P

100 REM"Above does 3 separate loops. Next

comes the use of 2 nested loops."

110 FOR P=l TO 31

120 PRINT CHR$(22);

130 FOR N=l TO 31

140 PRINT CHR$(131 );

150 NEXT N

160 NEXT P

170 REM" When RUN-Note difference in sequence

in lines when printed in 2nd section which

has the nested loops P & N."

5 CLS

6 REM"This routine finds Memory Addresses

where your Program is stored"
10 PRINT"PROGRAM ADDRESS"; TAB 10;
"CONTENTS"; TAB 20 ; "CHAR ACTER "

20 FOR P = 16509 TO 16653

30 PRINT P;TAB 10;PEEK P

40 LET N = PEEK P

50 PRINT P; TAB 10;PEEK P;

60 PRINT TAB 20;CHR$(N)

70 NEXT P

80 REM"Line 10 Prints tabular heading"

90 REM"Line 20-Memory Addresses to be displayed"

100REM"Line 30-P is first address to display.

Letter N stands for contents of address."

110REM"Line 50-The key-Tells us just how our
program is stored."

120REM"Line 60-Likewi se-Bu t in English so we

can understand it without decoding CHR$"

1 30REM"Remain der of program is a repeat-each
Line displays a sequential output of
each program sta temen t , i t s code & the
actual character represented."

Listing 5. Program showing where TS-1000 stores data.

Circle 262 on Reader Service card.

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Microcomputing, September 1983 49

symbol or some other function that
the computer can recall and use in
performing the tasks assigned to it by
the program statements.

If you will examine the Remarks
statements line by line in Listing 5,
you will readily understand how it
does this operation. It does it using the
binary number system, which is a can
of worms we won't open right now.

Peek and Poke with Care

When I got my Sinclair ZX-81 two
years ago, I was awed and frightened
by the warnings contained in the in-
struction manual regarding Peek and
Poke functions. I had visions of the
computer going up in smoke if I made
the slightest error. Sure, you can mess
up the computer if you are really care-
less. The simple solution, which set
my fears at rest, was to tape a type-
written card above the computer key-
board, saying:

Do NOT Poke: Addresses 0000 to 8191 inclu-
sive or 16384 to 16508 inclusive
You CAN Poke: Addresses 17408 to 32767
inclusive

Notice in Fig. 1 that all the forbid-
den addresses contain the System
Variables— namely, the command in-
structions that are part of the "brain"
of the computer. Poking into these
areas is comparable to disarranging
the spark plug timing on your car. The
car will still be there; it just won't run.

In any program containing a Poke
instruction, the first and last things to
check before running the program are
the addresses being Poked, to make
certain you are not entering a forbid-
den area of memory. Certain of these
areas may be Peeked, however. Con-
sult your instruction manual.

Foreign Accents

What about all those fine programs
written for other computers that
you've noticed in the magazines?
Wouldn't it be great to run them on
the Sinclair? You can, if you have the
time and patience to convert them to
Sinclair language. After all, most of
them are written in Basic, aren't they?
The problem is that they are in differ-
ent "dialects" of Basic.

Just as a Southerner and a Yankee
sometimes have difficulty communi-
cating with each other, some comput-
ers cannot understand and use a pro-
gram written specifically for another
machine. Same language— different
dialect. But all is not lost.

Simply determine which commands

50 Microcomputing, September 1983

or statements are incompatible with
the Sinclair computer, then rewrite
these program lines using statements
the Sinclair understands. This requires
some work, but is not too difficult.

If you are converting a long TRS-80
program with numerous print in-
dexed references, it will pay you in
time saved to use the subroutine in
Listing 6 and let the computer do the
math for you.

Space does not permit a complete
listing of all subroutines used in TRS-
80-to-Sinclair conversions. If you wish,
send me your name and address and a
buck to cover my paper, printing and
postage costs, and I will send you

complete listings of all the conversion
subroutines I regularly use.

Finally, to end up with another
goody, the program in Listing 7 is
handy for centering titles, menus, or
whatever else you wish to put on the
screen. It saves counting the letters in
each title. The computer does it for
you with this program.

Hopefully, these few pointers will
illustrate some of the many capabili-
ties of the Sinclair computer. While it
may look like a toy, the Sinclair is ca-
pable of some fine programming, lead-
ing to many enjoyable and useful
hours. Just tell it what to do in its own
Southern dialect. ■

5 REM M This routine converts TRS-80 PRINT @
statements to the equivalent ZX81
PRINT AT (Line), (Column ) Statements"

10 CLS

20 PRINT TAB 10 J "CONVERTING PRINT INDEX"

30 LET C$="C0LUMN INDEX"

40 LET L$="LINE NUMBER"

41 LET L=0

42 LET C=0
45 INPUT T

50 IF T>=64 OR T<=127 THEN LET L = 1

55 IF T<=63 THEN LET C= INT ( T *. 49206 )

60 IF T<=127THEN LET C= INT ( T- 63 )*. 49206

65 IF T> 127 OR T <=rl91 THEN LET L = 2

70 IF T>127 OR T<=191 THEN LET C= INT ( T- 1 27 ) * . 49206

80 PRINT "LINE NO . = " ; 1 ; "COLUMN N0.= M ;INT(C)

90 GOTO 30

100 REM" The process can be repeated for each

conversion provided if the TRS-80 PRINT @
number is higher, the value of T is decreased by
an appropriate increment of 63 for each line and
the value of L is increased by 1 each time."

Listing 6. Subroutine for converting TRS-80 programs with print indexed references.

Listing 7. Program for centering titles, menus or other input data.

5 CLS

10 REM "When prompt (L) app ears-Type in

Your Title Text"
20 REM "Use other values for A B & C to

Relocate Your Title"

Circle 55 on Reader Service card.

Listing 7 continued.

30 INPUT A$

*f0 LET A=10

1 Input for Text of
TITLE

'Indicates Line // to

place title on
50 LET K=14-LEN(A$)/2

'Measure title length
for centering
60 PRINT AT A,K;A$ "Print title !§>Line A

Column K
70 INPUT B$ 'Input for 2nd Title
80 LET B=ll 'Position-2nd Title
90 LET K=14-LEN(B$)/2

'Sets start 2nd Title
100 PRINT AT B,K;B$

•Prints 2nd Title
110 INPUT C$ "Repeat of Title for

3rd Title Input
120 LET C=12 ' Same as A & B
130 LET !<=LEN(C$)/2 'Same as for A&B
140 PRINT AT C,K;C$ 'Print 3rd Title
150 REM "The ' Symbol Indicates a

REMARK

Circle 392 on Reader Service card.

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Microcomputing, September 1983 51

Something to Write About

No more typing on the keyboard with the Personal Penpad for
the IBM PC. Simply write your data on a graphics tablet, and

the micro will discern what you wrote.

By Kenniston Lord

Fear of the computer keyboard,
called "terminal phobia" by Time
magazine, is a serious impediment to
many people, from executives to
clerks and factory workers. A new
product, The Personal Penpad, re-
moves any need to be embarrassed
about your typing ability by substitu-
ting for keyboard entry a skill —
writing by hand— in which everyone
has considerable training.

Its manufacturer, Pencept, Inc. (39
Green St., Waltham MA 02154), has
devised a means whereby you can
enter data and commands into a com-
puter (not only a microcomputer but

also larger systems) merely by hand-
writing. All that you need to com-
municate with the computer is paper,
pen, and the Personal Penpad digitiz-
ing tablet. I tested the IBM PC ver-
sion for this review.

The input process has been simpli-
fied to the point where block printing
of the English alphabet and the Ara-
bic numerals is the only skill re-
quired to use the Personal Penpad.
The system has great flexibility. Fig.
1 shows a set of sample characters
that the Personal Penpad can read. If
your writing ability is at least this
good, you can provide error- free in-

The Personal Penpad 's controller is the size of a large book and is designed to be sandwiched between the
computer's system unit and the monitor.

52 Microcomputing, September 1983

put to the computer.

The Writing Tablet

You write on a 15V2-inch square
graphics tablet upon which paper has
been mounted. This tablet is divided
into two sections— a forms area
(where the data itself is entered) and
a command area (where you enter
commands specific to the software or
to the hardware used). Fig. 2 illus-
trates the tablet layout.

The paper used is 8V2 x 1 1 inches,
with a printed grid that coincides
with the electronic grid mounted in
the graphics tablet. Forms may be lo-
cally produced or obtained from Pen-
cept, and other sizes of graphics tab-
lets and forms are available. Tablet
form grids may be defined and soft-
ware commands identified to the
computer.

To use the Personal Penpad, you
place a form on the tablet surface and
calibrate it by a set-up procedure.
From that point, all that is necessary is
to write on it with a standard ball
point pen cartridge fitted to a stylus
and attached to the Penpad' s controller.

Block capitals A to Z, Arabic numer-
als to 9 and 15 other characters will
be accepted. Once written on the
form, a character is interpreted by the
controller, which, using matching al-
gorithms, compares what has been en-
tered to the permissible characters.

Assuming that the written character
meets the algorithm's conditions, im-
mediate visual verification is possi-
ble—the character appears on the mi-
crocomputer's screen. If the character
does not meet the algorithm and can-
not be interpreted, a question mark

Address correspondence to Kenniston W. Lord,
Jr., 45 School St., Winchendon, MA 01475.

will appear in its place on the monitor.
Rewriting the character will usually
correct the problem.

Data editing becomes a part of the
entry process. The computer holds the
permissible codes for a given location
on the grid, and if some other code is
entered, reacts accordingly. You can
define the grid boxes to accept data,
reject data, move a loaded string or ac-
cept only certain valid characters. The
data captured is ACSII data, which
may be processed by any program es-
tablished to read an ASCII file, such as
a word processor.

The Controller

The controller is about the size of
a large book 3 x 14 x 11 inches laid
on its side, and is designed to be
placed in the space between the PC's
system unit and its monitor, as shown
in the photograph. Interface to the
PC is via the serial asynchronous
board, using EIA RS-232C. (This inter-
face is not a standard item and must
be purchased separately for approx-
imately $150.)

Memory used for the Personal Pen-
pad is part of the controller interface it-
self; therefore the memory required of
the PC itself is only the amount neces-
sary to operate the software that uses
Penpad data as input. The speed of the
input, which is serial, may be varied.

There are three modes of input:

• Character coordinate mode: As
each character is hand-printed, it is
transmitted by Dynamic Character
Recognition (DCR) to the PC, with its
tablet row and column position. This
mode allows the software to take max-

imum advantage of the input. It log-
ically aligns boxes on the paper forms
to memory boxes located in arrays in
memory.

• Keyboard compatible mode: As
each character is hand-printed, it is
transmitted by DCR to the PC as the
next character, devoid of position
information. If an error has been
made on a character, it need only be
rewritten. The controller provides the
appropriate backspacing and correc-
tion, just as if you had moved the cur-
sor and keyed in a correction.

• Graphics input mode: The graphics

tablet is, after all, a graphics tablet,
and for years they have been used as
digitizers. Personal Penpad provides
the same facility, allowing applica-
tions which combine both text and
graphics.

Dynamic Character Recognition

DCR is the state of the art in pattern
recognition, according to Pencept.
The process is not simply to recognize
a pattern that has been placed within
known boundaries, as has traditional-
ly been the case. DCR electronically
simulates the hand movements which

k 4 fr

Yv k yr

Ut VI &

p ^ <p

V & 43

JL.v'i

Y y V

I x \

o & c

r\ D \f

O yX J

d * %

V i?

v> U nu

/ * "X

3 3 5

£^G

D o o

Y y <r-

4- y-^

f *c ?

r 9 p

Z 2r *

5 " f 5

Qr^Cr

C> Q 4

* $ 1r

(p <<=> (d

# W jt

# ■ ft ft

^ * +-

7 11

$ S -

t "4 *

V 8 8

J J~ *

<? "Cy

i* % x

<=/ 9 3

Fig. 1. <

4 sample of characters that the Personal Penpad can

read.

Circle 43 on Reader Service card.

t There are 130 computer books

in our September issue.

Don't miss the 20-page B. Dalton catalogue of books on computers—
a ready reference to personal, business and advanced computers, software,
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understanding of the dynamics of our planet.
That's the story we unfold in this issue.
On sale September 1.

People who know books know^D JTA2£40?f

BOOKSELLER

Microcomputing, September 1983 53

are used for character formation and
hence is not constrained by the spec-
ific size of the character.

Pattern recognition alone would re-
quire the letter B, for example, to fit
within one specific set of location co-
ordinates on the graphics tablet. This
is the case for characters written on
pre-printed forms in the character co-
ordinate mode. However, I was able
to write a six-inch letter B in the key-
board compatible mode, with the re-
sult that the letter correctly appeared
in the next available position on the
entry line.

The key to DCR is the concept of
"dynamic." DCR recognizes letters as
they are being printed, and it accepts
the writing skills of the person doing
the printing. Optical Character Recog-
nition (OCR), on the other hand, re-
quires machine-formed or very care-
fully hand-formed characters, and
must pass the printing fully by an elec-
tronic "reading" mechanism before rec-
ognition can take place. Understand-
ably, OCR has a fairly high loss rate.

The algorithms built into the Per-
sonal Penpad are extensive, allowing

recognition even of relatively sloppy
printing. To provide this level of facil-
ity, the capability had to be built into
the system to allow for individual, cul-
tural, and academic factors. The hu-
man tendency, for example, to form
similar characters when writing "2"
and "Z" had to be taken into account,
as well as the similarity between zero
(occasionally slashed) and the letter O
and the European (and some program-
mers') tendency to place a cross-bar
on the letter Z and the number 7.

How DCR Works

The act of printing causes a person
to move his pen in diverse directions
at variable speeds. The pen point is
moved back and forth, up and down,
lifted from or dropped to the paper.
Each of these actions forms the basis
of a pen stroke. Combine a pen, a
high-resolution graphics tablet and the
power of the computer's sampling ca-
pability, and the movements of hand
and pen can be captured. Extensive
pen movement discernment at high
speed makes handwriting input both
possible and highly reliable.

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Fig. 2. The Personal Penpad's graphics tablet layout.

A handwritten character is received
by the unit as a rough image that is
then cleaned up, or "preprocessed."
Crooked lines are straightforward, ex-
traneous marks are removed, and the
character is shaped to conform to one
of the images contained in the control-
ler' s algorithms. In the character coor-
dinate mode, and in some instances in
the keyboard compatible mode, the
character is written in a precise place
on the paper. This location is a specific
size, and since the bulk of the charac-
ter is formed at that location, shaping
of the character is generally confined.

Space is a secondary limitation. The
handstrokes which are used to form
the letter F are precisely the same as
those used when forming the two
characters 1 and =. This presents
some difficulty in the keyboard com-
patible mode, as the entered character
shows up as two characters. Since
they would be printed in two adjacent
boxes in the character coordinate
mode, that problem would not exist.

Generative rules and perceptual
rules have been incorporated into the
DCR process. Generative rules cover
those movements used to form the
character. The movement is sensed by
the penpoint, detected by the stylus,
and transmitted to the controller. All
the logically possible ways to form a
handwritten letter have been built in-
to the unit. Those methods are then
compared to the letter formation used
when the character is written.

While the rules are extensive, there
will be ways to defeat them if it is de-
sired to do so. By and large, there is a
finite number of ways to form the let-
ters, and those ways have been in-
cluded. The perceptual rules compare
the shapes entered with those identi-
fied within the system.

Pencept holds that these methods
provide nearly instantaneous recogni-
tion and advises that if the writer
prints letters that are so sloppy an-
other person would have difficulty
recognizing them, the computer can-
not be expected to do much better.

Hand-printing recognition technolo-
gy is relatively new and has found its
first successful implementation in this
Pencept product. It can be seen that
fear of the keyboard may easily be re-
moved through this method.

The training required to use the Per-
sonal Penpad was really done years
ago when the writing process was
learned. All you now need to do is
learn to use the Personal Penpad, turn
on the computer, load a disk, load a
form, pick up the pen and print. ■

54 Microcomputing, September 1983

Circle 93 on Reader Service card.

Circle 230 on Reader Service card.

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Microcomputing, September 1983 55

Stick It for $10

In this article, the author explains how to make your own

joystick for only $10.

By H. Bruce Land III

If you think joysticks are just for
games, think again. They are a
serious programming and data aid.

An Apple, for example, is already
wired for joysticks; you only need to
plug them in. Other computers accept
them almost as readily.

A good joystick costs between $50
and $100; some discounts are avail-

PADDLE
CONNECTOR

JOYSTICK WIRING

JOYSTICK

PUSHBUTTONS

HEADER

Fig. 1. Connecting the joystick. Use about six feet
of six conductor cable for each joystick. Make a
hole in the box for one end of the cable. The other
end goes to the DIP header.

able, but why spend so much? Why
not just build your own?

Why Should You?

There are three good reasons why
you should:

•You'll learn something about your
computer.

•You'll enjoy creating hardware
(known as physical therapy by some
people and mental therapy by others) .
•Your wife won't let you shell out
another $50 on "that dumb computer."

How Do Joysticks Work?

When the joystick moves along one
axis— say from north to south— it me-
chanically adjusts the potentiometers.
These changes appear in the computer
as digital values from to 255.

When the joystick moves from east
to west, it generates similar values at a
different location. If it moves on one
of the 45 degree diagonals, it generates
equal values in the two locations.

The two switches will perform a va-
riety of functions. You can use them to
cause data to be read or written, move-
ment to start or stop, guns to shoot,
subroutines to be called and so on.

You could probably make a set of
joysticks with parts from your junk
box, but if you buy a few items (from a
nearby Radio Shack or another elec-
tronics supply house) you can build
good ones that will cost no more than
$10 each, even if you buy nearly all

Joystick

RS #271-1075

$4.95

Box, 4x2.12 x 1.62

RS #270-231

1.69

Pushbutton switches

RS #275-1547

2.49 each

DIP header

RS #276-1980

1.49

Capacitors, .01 uFd

(2) RS #272-131

.39 each

Resistors, 3.3k

(2) RS #271-1328

.39 each

Capacitor, 10 jiFd

RS #272-1013

.59

Misc. wire, etc.

Table 1. Listing of parts necessary

to construct your own joystick.

These items can be

purchased at Radio Shack stores.

the parts.

Unless you're a good engineer, you
won't want to try to build the stick
itself; it's mounted on gimbals to
swing freely in any direction, chang-
ing the settings of the two pots as it
moves. Your junk box will probably
have many of the other parts, but if
you decide to buy them at a Radio
Shack, you can use the parts list
shown in Table 1.

First, you need to decide where the
two switches and the joystick will be
mounted. I mounted mine on the metal
plate that forms the top of the mini
box. Use any box that fits your hand; a
tin can works well. Use the template
on the back of the joystick package to
mark the positions of the mounting
screws.

Using about six feet of six-conductor
cable for each joystick, make a hole in
the box for one end of the cable. The
other end goes to the DIP header. Fig.
1 shows how to connect it. (Radio
Shack has a flat cable with a DIP plug
already attached to one end. Unfor-
tunately, the only length available is
18 inches and that's a bit too short to
use with joysticks.)

The resistors are there just to pull
down a gate, so any value from 1000
to 4700 ohms, l A watt, should work.
C3 is a filter capacitor, so any value
from 4.7 ^Fd up should be all right, as
long as the working voltage is 6 V or
higher. Incidentally, if any of the
switches in your paddles have failed,
these are good replacements.

Wire the cable to the switches, joy-
sticks and resistors. They can be
wired to stand-off insulators, or direct-
ly together.

It Gets Tricky

Now comes the tricky part: the
selection of CI and C2. They must be

Address correspondence to H. Bruce Land III, 6916
Park Place, Baltimore, MD 21227.

56 Microcomputing, September 1983

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Microcomputing, September 1983 57

chosen to give, along with the 100k
resistance, a time constant of 0.0033 of
a second. To understand why, you
need to know what the signals are and
how they are used.

When you execute X = PDL(0) or
Y = PDL(l), the computer sends a
signal to the joystick (or paddle) and
starts counting. It will count to 255,
unless it is stopped by a signal from
the joystick.

The signal sent back to the com-
puter will be delayed by a period of
time that is determined by the RC con-
stant of the circuit. Since the value of
the capacitor will be constant, the
duration of the delay will be deter-
mined by the resistance.

Thus, the figure in the counter rep-
resents the resistance of the joystick
circuit, which represents the position
of the joystick. This measurement is
passed along by the computer to what-
ever is being controlled— direction
and distance on the CRT, figures, rates
or whatever.

In an RC network, the value of the
time constant is given by the formula
T = RC. The factory setting is 0.022 ^Fd. ,
giving a time constant of 0.0033 of a sec-
ond with a 150k-ohm joystick. Apple

installed the 0.022 jiFd. inside the
computer. To get the same time con-
stant with a 100K joystick, we need an
additional 0.011 /nFd. of capacitance.

Capacitors of 0.01 jiFd. are com-
mon, and since the manufacturing tol-
erance for a capacitor may be as much
as ±20 percent, your 0.01 capacitors
may work. Try them; run the short
program to read all the values gener-
ated by the joystick, and see if it gives
you all of the values from to 255 in
each direction. If it doesn't, turn off
the computer and replace CI or C2
with a different capacitor.

You may need to try several before
you find a working combination. If
you don't find one in a few tries, you
can solder a small 0.001 capacitor
across the 0.01. (Be sure to disconnect
the joystick from the Apple before sol-
dering! It is quite possible for the sol-
dering iron to generate enough static
electricity or leak enough 110 V ac to
blow something within the computer.)

When both axes of the joystick gen-
erate the required range of values,
you're finished. Tie the cable to the
back of one of the switches with
string, so that you will not yank the
cable out of the box during a heated
data entry session, and then screw the
cover on the box.

Now, what do you do with a joy-

58 Microcomputing, September 1983

stick? That's a subject for another arti-
cle, but to start, you can link it to your
cursor with software. Then you can
use it for data entry, to select items
from a menu, use a computer-aided
design program, or lay out a PC board.
A program called TEKSYM simu-
lates a Tektronix graphics display
unit. If you tire of this heavy work, re-
member that Pac-Man (Snoggle), Space
Raiders, Defenders and similar pro-
grams all use this mode of data entry.

If it's good enough to save the uni-
verse from alien invaders, isn't it
worth trying?

Test Programs

Joystick Test Program #1 will al-
ways work. Some computers require
the delay given by Line 20:

10 PRINT PDL(0);
20 FOR I = 1 TO 40. NEXT I
30 PRINT" ";PDL(1)
40 GOTO 10

Test Program #2 will usually work:

10 PRINT PDL(0), PDL(l)
20 GOTO 10

Photo 1 shows the interior of the
homemade joystick. For a glimspe of
the finished product, see Photo 2.B

Photo 1.

Photo 2.

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Microcomputing, September 1983 59

Heath's ET-100
Is Outta This World

This 16-bit do-it-yourself micro
is worth phoning home about.

By Timothy Daniel

What do color televisions, ham
radio rigs, solar hot water heat-
ers and robots have in common? Not
much . . . unless you happen to think
of the Heath Company.

As America's headquarters for hi-
tech kits, this subsidiary of Zenith
Corp. has built a reputation for offer-
ing a mixed bag of do-it-yourself prod-
ucts. And while the furniture kits and
satellite TV receivers never lit the
world on fire, the same can't be said
for Heath's line of microcomputers. A
1982 survey of sales placed Heath and
its partner Zenith Data Systems in
sixth place, right up there with Apple,
Tandy and Commodore.

The New Member of the Family

The newest member of the Heath/
Zenith computing family is the ET-100
Learning Computer. Representing a
mixed pedigree, the ET-100 shares the
educational approach offered by
Heath's ET-3400 eight-bit trainer and
the 16-bit technology of the company's
recently announced H-100 and H-120
personal computer line. Heritage aside,
I carried a head full of questions when I
was Heath's guest for a one-day pro-
motional session at their plant in Ben-
ton Harbor, MI.

Will the ET-100 Measure Up?

At a cost of $999.95, will the ET-100
measure up to the track record of the
ET-3400, a darling of the educational
market that has sold more than 100,000
units in its five-year history? And,
when expanded, does the ET-100 be-
come enough of a clone to ride on the
IBM Personal Computer's coattails?

60 Microcomputing, September 1983

The answer to these questions,
according to Heath, lies in the
ET-100's multipurpose appeal. When
accompanied by Heath's Advanced
Microprocessors Training Course, the
ET-100 will attract folks who are just
beginning to learn about micros as
well as those who need to upgrade
their knowledge from eight-bit to
16-bit computing.

Thanks to its breadboard feature,
access to data, address and I/O lines,
and the ROM-based programming aids,
the computer belongs in yet another
market niche: engineering design and
test systems. Third, and perhaps of

most interest to Microcomputing
readers, is the Learning Computer's
role as an inexpensive way to try 16-
bit computing.

How It Happened

Perhaps the best way to review the
ET-100's features is to trace its devel-
opment. In making the transition to 16
bits, Heath found that hand-assem-
bled machine language programming
taxed sensibilities. The decision to go

Address correspondence to Timothy Daniel, 7
Peabody Drive, Oxford, OH 45056.

Heath's educational trainer will teach you a thing or two about 16-bit computing.

HOW TO CONTROL YOUR
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Circle 57 on Reader Service card.

Microcomputing, September 1983 61

with an assembly language-based sys-
tem was accompanied by several
fundamental design changes from the
barebones design of the 68000-based
ET-3400.

The expanded character set meant
that a full keyboard and improved dis-
plays were required. The final result
was a design that incorporated all the
features of a complete system: alpha-
numeric keyboard, 80-column com-
posite video output and cassette-based
mass storage.

Another equally important series of
decisions resulted in the use of the
8088 microprocessor. After coming
this far, it was only a matter of com-
mon sense to pursue the computer's
similarity to the IBM PC by adding
the ability to upgrade to a disk-based
system with color graphics that can
use the growing library of MS-DOS
software.

Look at That ROM

In its basic configuration, the
ET-100has32Kof ROM, 16KofRAM,
RS-232 port, composite video output,
breadboard with buffered I/O, detach-
able keyboard and a power supply.

The kit version of the Learning

Computer takes 12 to 14 hours to
build, with most of the work related to
the construction of the power supply
and cable harnesses.

The main CPU board comes preas-
sembled, but it can be expanded to
64K of RAM. Factory assembled, the
computer costs $500 more, $1499.95.
To use the computer, all you need to
add is a cassette recorder and video
monitor. In a pinch, you could use a
modulator-driven TV set by switching
the video display to 40 columns.

Upgrading to a disk-based system
takes about 16 hours and requires the
ETA-100, which costs $1299.95
($1999.95 for a factory-assembled ver-
sion) . The upgraded package includes
128K of RAM, 320K floppy disk drive
and controller, two RS-232 ports, pro-
grammable timers, bit-mapped video
board (640 x 255 resolution), and a
parallel printer port. A dust cover for
the breadboard is included in the up-
grade, making the finished comput-
er a handy resting place for a video
monitor.

At this point, you'll have a system
capable of running many Z-DOS pro-
grams. (Z-DOS is Heath's name for
MS-DOS, a product of Microsoft, Inc.,

Circle 212 on Reader Service card.

Discon System formats (initializes), reads, writes and

converts among dozens of 8" and 5-1 /4" (48 and 96 TPI)

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that is fast becoming the standard for
single-user 16-bit microcomputers, in-
cluding the IBM PC.)

A second level of upgrades is avail-
able when you add another 64K of
RAM, another drive in the existing
enclosure and two RAM chips to give
eight-color video. To enjoy the im-
proved display, you'll need an RGB
monitor.

If you decide to use the ET-100 as a
learning tool, you'll need to invest
$99.95 in the EE-8088 Advanced Mi-
croprocessors Training Course. This
includes a comprehensive textbook
and pack of parts that are used in the
course's many experiments.

Putting It Together Is Easy

If the ET-100 is your first Heath kit,
you may be surprised by the fact that
the actual assembly of the unit is not
much of a learning exercise. Thanks to
the explicit directions, anyone can
build the kit, provided he can solder.

The real education takes place
when you complete the basic system
and start to follow the course outline.
Just as in a real school, there are some
prerequisites. You'll need to bone up
on basic digital electronics, number
systems, binary and hex notation, and
computer arithmetic.

While the lessons feature the 8088/
8086 MPU family, the knowledge is
broad-based and can be transferred to
any 16-bit processor. There are ten
units, each with specified objectives,
review questions, an exam and experi-
ments. Using graduated learning steps,
all of the 8088' s instructions are intro-
duced and most are covered in detail.
While the experiments don't teach
programming per se, they do make
heavy use of the built assembler and
debugger.

Reaching a Climax

The course reaches a climax in unit
10, hardware interfacing. There you
combine your knowledge of hardware
and programming to complete a direct
memory access experiment that takes
about 7Vz hours to build; finally you
construct a simple lightpen and pro-
gram in application software.

Heath estimates that it takes 100 to
120 hours to complete the course.
Upon completion you should be able
to describe the structure of a micro-
computer, design a simple microcom-
puter, interface a micro to the outside
world and write assembly language
programs.

A noteworthy part of the ET-100 is
its 32K of ROM. This includes a

62 Microcomputing, September 1983

CP/M-86-based assembler, screen ed-
itor and graphics debugger. The mon-
itor is especially handy for develop-
ment work since it supports serial I/O.
A further aid to development is the
ability to use the breadboard for pro-
totyping without fear of harming the
computer itself. Breadboard signals
are buffered and include all the data
and address lines, most control lines,
the system clock and reset.

A Full-fledged Computer

The addition of the upgrade kit
transforms the ET-100 from a mild-
mannered learning tool into a full-
fledged computer for home or busi-
ness use. The resulting machine dif-
fers from the IBM PC in one signifi-
cant way— its video display. Programs
that make use of video hooks specific
to the IBM are not likely to run on the
ET-100. This eliminates anything that
uses graphics, but it doesn't eliminate
most text-only programs.

The popularity of machines like the
Texas Instruments 16-bit business
computer, where MS-DOS is used but
the system is not completely compati-
ble with the IBM, has started to gain
the attention of many software

houses. Popular programs like Lotus's
1-2-3 are starting to become available
in formats for computers like the H-
100 and H-120, making them useable
on the Learning Computer, too.

Thanks to its compatibility with
Heath's H-100 and H-120 computers,
the expanded ET-100 can use the com-
pany's powerful Basic for color
graphics programming. The demon-
stration I saw was nothing short of
spectacular. And to my surprise, the
programs were relatively short and
straightforward.

After spending a day with the ET-
100 team, it was hard to leave feeling
anything but good about Heath and its
line of computers. A quick inspection
of the marketplace turns up no other
16-bit computer that is uniquely aimed
at the educational user.

The ET could be used in most de-
manding schools; part of its day could
be spent teaching microprocessor fun-
damentals to beginning students; an-
other, more advanced, class could ex-
ploit the breadboard and debugging
features; in the afternoon, put a dust
cover on the machine and use it to
teach programming. Last but not least,
it can fill in as an administrative aide,

helping with word processing, spread-
sheets or database management.

As a machine for the home or office
computing market, the ET-100 faces
some tough competition. The price tag
of a fully expanded, factory- wired ver-
sion rubs up against what you would
pay for an IBM or TI 16-bit system.
Add the cost of software and you might
find a better deal with one of the IBM
clones with bundled software.

I suspect that if you're shopping for
a complete system, Heath intends for
you to buy its H-100 or H- 120. If, how-
ever, you want to start as a student
and end up as a user, you'd be hard-
pressed to find an alternative better
than the Learning Computer.

Obviously, a one-day "dog and pony
show" doesn't give anyone a chance
to fully evaluate the merits of a com-
puter. But, on the other hand, Heath is
on its third decade of selling kits. This
is a contrast to many of Heath's com-
petitors, most of which are johnny-
come-lately firms.

That's not the only difference,
though. No one but Heath offers a
computer that you can build, use as an
educational laboratory and then put to
work as a hobby or professional tool.B

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Microcomputing, September 1983 63

Up Periscope!

60 Minutes' Andy Rooney would appreciate the Periscope
program, which sheds some light on the inner operation
of your micro. Written in Basic for the VIC-20 and
Commodore-64, Periscope will help you to understand
hexadecimal and binary values.

By Gary D. McClellan and Mike Pazderka

Can you imagine Andy Rooney of
60 Minutes doing a spot on the
Commodore-64 or VIC-20? It proba-
bly would sound something like this:

"And then there are those home
computers. Haven't you ever won-
dered why they call them home com-
puters? Isn't it because the owner has
to stay home a lot just to figure out how
to make the computer work?

"Of course, manuals do come with
these things, but have you ever looked
at one? They keep talking about peeks
and pokes.

'Isn't peek something illegal you do
with binoculars late at night? And
poke— don't you poke something with
a stick? Now who would want to poke
his new computer with a stick? I
wouldn't— would you? The manuals
say you should, and all because you
need to look at bits. Isn't a bit some-
thing that belongs in a horse's mouth?
And who would want to poke a horse?
It would probably bite you.

"That's what it says in the manual.
You poke the machine to set the bits
and you have a new byte. I certainly
believe that— just like poking a horse.

"Don't you feel like you're lost in
muddy water in a submarine with all
these bits and bytes floating around? I
certainly do. Don't you wish you had
a periscope so you could see where
you're going?.

Periscope

The above account is, of course,
speculation, but I wouldn't be sur-
prised to hear it someday, especially
with all the new users of home com-
puters. Graphics, sound generation,
communications and a number of ma-
chine configuration functions depend
on the user selecting specific bits in a

64 Microcomputing, September 1983

defined memory location, doing a
peek to that location to find out what
bits are set and then doing a poke to
the location to set up the bit values
that they need.

For those of us who sometimes have
trouble thinking in hexadecimal and
binary values and often wonder what
values are stored in memory, the Peri-
scope program for the Commodore-64
and VIC-20 should provide a useful
tool to help us better understand our
machines.

Periscope is written entirely in Basic
and will allow the user to dump the
hexadecimal values stored in a range
of memory locations, patch (enter
hexadecimal) values to a range of
memory locations, disassemble hexa-
decimal values in a range of memory
into 6502/6510 assembly language
instructions, and convert number
values from decimal, hexadecimal or
binary to all three bases.

Program Operation

When the Periscope program is run,
the first thing it does is clear the screen
and display a menu of options. An op-
tion is selected by pressing a number
from 1 to 5 before pressing the enter
key. When a valid option has been se-
lected, the program will display either
a beginning address prompt of Yes? or
a conversion prompt of ( 1 = DEC
2 = HEX 3 = BIN)?.

Let's take a look at the options and
see what they'll do for us.

Option 1: Dump— The dump option
will display values stored in memory
in hexadecimal notation (two hexa-
decimal digits for each byte of memo-
ry). The memory values are displayed
from a beginning address to an ending
address, entered from the keyboard.

When the option is selected, a begin-
ning address prompt of Yes? will be
displayed.

The program then expects a two-
byte (four hex digits) memory address
to be entered. If a mistake is made
entering an address, it cannot be cor-
rected by backspacing, since the pro-
gram doesn't recognize INST/DEL.
The address data can be retyped im-
mediately after the error on the same
line, however. The program accepts
the last four digits typed when the
return key is pressed, regardless of
how many total characters have been
typed on the line.

After the beginning address has
been entered, the program will re-
spond with an ending address prompt
of >. The ending address is entered in
the same manner as the beginning ad-
dress, with the last four digits typed
considered to be the actual value.

If only two or three hex digits are
entered, the program will assume that
the leftmost characters are zeros. For
example, if hex AE is typed and the
return key is pressed, the program
will assume an address of 00AE hex is
intended.

After the program has the beginning
and ending address for the memory
dump, a Printer Output (Y/N) prompt
will be displayed. A Y response will
direct the output to the 1525 Commo-
dore printer. Entering an N, or just
pressing the return key, will direct
output to the screen.

After the enter key is pressed, the

Address correspondence to Gary D. McClellan or
Mike Pazderka, do Wizard Works Software
Engineering, PO Box 1750, Flagstaff, AZ 86002.

program will print a hexadecimal
memory address followed by eight
hexadecimal values stored in memory
on the Commodore-64, or six hexa-
decimal values stored in memory on
the VIC-20. The program will con-
tinue printing memory addresses, fol-
lowed by memory values in six- or
eight-byte groups, until the ending ad-
dress is reached or until any alphanu-
meric key is pressed on the keyboard
when the values are being displayed
to the screen.

When a key is pressed during a
dump to the screen, the output will
stop and the program will wait for
another key to be pressed before
continuing the dump. This prevents
the data from scrolling off the screen
before you can read it. If the key
pressed to interrupt the display is an
X, the dump will terminate and the
program will redisplay the Yes?
prompt. If the X key is pressed again,
the program will return to the menu.

If a hexadecimal address is entered,
the program will prompt for the end-
ing address and printer output, and
then dump memory values starting
with the new beginning address.
When the ending address is reached,
the program will display the Yes?
prompt and another dump can be
selected, or the X key pressed to re-
turn to the menu.

Option 2: Patch— The patch option
will let you enter hexadecimal values
into memory. When the option is
selected, the program will display the
Yes? prompt. A beginning address
should be entered in the same manner
as with the dump option, or the X key
can be pressed to return to the menu.

After a beginning address is en-
tered, the program will display the >
prompt. Enter the ending address or
an X to return to the menu. After the
ending address is entered, the pro-
gram will display the beginning ad-
dress in hex and wait for a one-byte
hex value to be entered. A mistake in
typing can be corrected in the same
way as when entering an address;
type the correct value immediately
after the error. The program will ac-
cept the last two hex digits in the line
as the correct value to place in
memory.

The program will continue to dis-
play the next sequential memory loca-
tion and wait for a value to be entered.
This sequence will continue until the
ending address is reached, or until the
X key is pressed. If the X key is pressed,
Ihe entry routine will terminate and a
Yes? prompt will be displayed. As

with the dump option, a new set of ad-
dresses may be entered, or the X key
pressed again to return the program to
the menu.

Option 3: Disassemble— The disas-
semble option will display a section of
memory as 6502/6510 assembly lan-
guage instructions. The routine trans-
lates the hexadecimal value in a mem-
ory location for a particular 6502/6510
machine language instruction into a
6502/6510 assembler language mne-
monic for that instruction and dis-
plays it. The routine then displays the
memory values for the next one or
two memory locations, if required by
the addressing mode of the machine
language instruction.

The disassemble option prompts and
entries are exactly the same as for the
dump option. The beginning and end-
ing address prompts are displayed; the
printer output prompt also is display-
ed. For either address prompt, the X
key can be pressed to return to the
menu. While the disassembly is being
printed to the screen, the routine can
be interrupted in the same manner as
the dump routine. A new section of
memory— or a return to the menu-
then can be specified.

Option 4: Convert— The convert op-
tion will convert a numeric value
entered as a decimal, hexadecimal or
binary number into the remaining two
number bases and display the values
on the screen. When this option is
selected, the program will display the
convert prompt, (1 = DEC 2 = HEX
3 = BIN)?. A number corresponding to
the desired numeric base should be
pressed, or the X key pressed to return
to the menu. After a numeric base has
been selected, the program will dis-
play a prompt of DEC?, HEX? or
BIN?. The program then waits for a
value to be entered in the base nota-
tion prompted for.

Decimal numbers should be in the
range of to 65535 without spaces be-
tween the digits. Hexadecimal num-
bers can be up to four hex charac-
ters in length and are entered in ex-
actly the same manner as the address
prompt entries. Binary numbers can
be from one to 16 digits of Is and 0s.
As with a decimal number, spaces be-
tween the digits will result in an incor-
rect answer. When entering a decimal
or binary number, the delete key can
be used to backspace and correct the
entry before the enter key is pressed.

Circle 344 on Reader Service card.

xT6 wr»'* b

DAISY WHEEL
PRINTER

Full Olivetti

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125 NORTHVIEW RD., ITHACA, N.Y. 14850

(607) 272-1 132

Microcomputing, September 1983 65

PERDV.
600 REM

•ft*****************************-*

601
6)212
603
604
60S
606
607
608
603
610
61 1
615
620
630
640
645
650
655
659
660
665
667
670
67£
674
676
678
680
682
684
686
688
630
632
694
636
638

700

705
710
720
725
735
740
750
755
760
763
765
770
773
775
780
782

785
786
787
788
783
730
732
733
734
735
736
737
738
800
810
820
830
840
850
860
870
B80
830
835
837
838

300

905
310
920
330
940
950
970
975
980
985
990
993

DUMP"
PRINT

REM ♦ »

REM * # PERISCOPE # *

REM * FOR C0MM0D0RE-64 AND VIC 20 ♦

REM » #

REM * WRITTEN BY MIKE PAZDERKA *

REM * AND GARY D. MCCLELLAN #

REM » P.O. BOX 1750 *

REM # FLAGSTAFF, AZ 86002 #

REM » ♦

REM ****«****************-»*********

DIMM* (56) ,0%<255) : FORP=0TO56 : READM* ( P) : NEXT :FORP=0TO255: READW

I FW <99THENW=W« 1 00

0%(P)=W:NEXT

PRINTCHR* (147) : R=0 : PRINTCHR* < 18) ; "» PERISCOPE HERE' ♦" : PRINT : PRINT" 1 )

PRINT"2) PATCH" :PRINT"3) DISASSEMBLE" : PRINT"4) CONVERT" : PRINT"5) END"

INPUT"OPTION ";C:IFC>30RC<1THEN655

G0SUB665 : GOSUB970 : I FRTHEN630

ONCGOSUB900, 800, 700, 670, 660 : R=0 : I FC> 3THEN630

GOTO650

G0SUB665:END

I FL= 1 THENPR I NT#4 : CL0SE4 : L=0 : P*= " ■

RETURN

R=0:PRINT" (1=DEC 2=HEX 3=BIN) ?"

GETK*: IFK*=" "THEN 672

I FK*= " X " THENRETURN

I FK*= " 1 " THENPR I NT " DEC " ; : E=0 : I NPUTE : P=E : G0SUB696 : GOSUB690

IFK*="3"THENPRINT"BIN" ; :G0SUB684 :G0SUB696

I FK*= " 2 " THEN PR I NT " HE X ? " ; : GOSUB980 : I F R < 1 THENG0SUB688 : GOSUB690

PRINT:GOTO670

E=0:O=0:K*="0" : INPUTK* : FORX=LEN <K*) T01STEP-1 :Q=Q+1

E=E+VAL<MID*<K*, Q, 1) )#2' (X-l) :NEXTX :G0SUB688 : RETURN

PRINT"DEC=" ;E: RETURN

PR I NT " B I N= " ; : FORX = 1 5T0 1 STEP- 1 : Q=0 : I FE-2'^X > =0THENE=E-2 '• X : Q= 1

IFX=7THENPRINT" ";

PRINTRIGHT*(STR*<Q), 1) ; : NEXTX : PRINTRIGHT* <STR* <E) , 1) : RETURN

P=E:PRINT"HEX=" ; :GOSUB950: PRINT : RETURN

P=E:NEXTP: PRINT: RETURN

GOSUB990:FORP=STOE: IFLTHEN710

G0SUB895 : I FRTHEN698

GOSUB950:W=O%(PEEK<P) ) : Z=INT (W/100) :W=W-Z*1 00: PRINT" " ;M*<Z) ;" " ;

0NWG0SUB725, 780, 735, 740, 782, 750, 755, 760, 765, 770, 773, 775: PRINT :NEXT: RETURN

PRINT"*"
GOSUB780
GOSUB780
G0SUB782
G0SUB782

:GOTO780

PRINT", X"; : RETURN

PRINT", Y" ; : RETURN

PRINT", X" ? :RETURN

PRINT", Y"; : RETURN
P=P+1 :Q=P:H=PEEK(P) : IFH> 127THENP=P-£56
P=P+1+H: PRINT"*" ; :GOSUB950 : P=Q: RETURN

PRINT" ("
PRINT" ("
PRINT"A"
PRINT" ("
PRINT"*"
PRINT"*"

:GOSUB780: PRINT" X)

: RETURN
:GOSUB780: PRINT") , Y" ; : RETURN
: RETURN

: G0SUB782 : PRINT") "; : RETURN
: P=P+ 1 : H=PEEK ( P) : GOTO920
:P=P+2:H=PEEK(P) :GOSUB920: H=PEEK (P-l ) :GOTO920

783 DATA-*??, ADC, AND, ASL, CMP, EOR, LDA, ORA, SBC, STA, BCC, BCS, BEQ, BIT, BMI, BNE, BPL, BRK

784 DATABVC, BVS, CLC, CLD, CLI, CLV, CPX, CPY, DEC, DEX, DEY, INC, INX, INY, JMP, JSR, LDX, LDY
DATALSR, NOP, PHA, PHP, PLA, PLP, ROL, ROR, RTI, RTS, SEC, SED, SEI, STX, STY, TAX, TAY
DATATSX, TXA, TXS, TYh, 17, 709, , , , 702, 302, , 39, 70i
DATA31 1, , , 705, 305, , 1608, 710, , , , 703, 303, , 20, 707, , , , 706, 306, , 3305, 209, , , 1302

i i »

>03

206,4206, ,44,509, , , ,502,3602, ,38,501,3611, , 3205,505,3605

, 40, 101

DATA202, 4202, ,41,201,4211, , 1305,205,4205, , 1408,210,

DATA4203, , 46, 207, , , ,

DATA, 1808, 510, , , , 503, 3603, , 22, 507, , , , 506, 3606, , 45, 109, , , , 102, 4302,

DATA4311, ,3212, 105,4305, , 1908, 1 10, , , , 103,4303, ,48, 107, , , , 106,4306, ,

DATA909, , , 5002, 902, 4902, , 28, , 54, , 5005, 905, 4905, , 1008, 910, , , 5003, 903, 4904, , 56

DATA907,55, , ,906, , ,3501,609,3401, ,3502,602,3402, ,52,601,51, ,3505,605,3405,

DATA1108,610, , , 3503, 603, 3404, ,23,607,53, ,3506,606,3407, ,2501,409, , ,2502

DOTA402,2602, , 31,401,27, ,2505,405, 2605, , 1508, 410, , , ,403,2603, ,21, 407, , , ,406

DATA2606, , 2401 , 809, , , 2402, 802, 2902, , 30, 801 , 37, , 2405, 805, 2905, , 1208

DATA810, , , , 803, 2903, , 47, 807, , , , 806, 2906,

FORP=STOE:GOSUB950:PRINT"<SS>" ; :H*=" " :GOSUB820: IFRTHEN698

POKEP, H:PRINT:NEXT:RETURN

GETK*: IFK*=""THEN820

W=ASC (K*) : IFU=88THENR=1 : RETURN

I FW= 1 3ANDLEN ( H* ) > 1 THEN870

IFW <480R <W> 57ANDW <65) ORW> 70THEN820

PRINTK*; :H*=H*+K*:GOTO820

W=ASC < RIGHT* (H*, 2) ) -48: IFW> 9THENW=W-7

W=W»16:H=ASC (RIGHT* (H*, 1) ) -48: IFH) 9THENH=H-7

H=H+W: RETURN

GETK*: I FK*=" "THENRETURN

IFK*="X"THENR=1 : RETURN

WAIT198, 1 :P0KE198, 0:RETURN

GOSUB990:FORP=STOE: IFINT( (P-S) /8)=(P-S) /8THENPRINT :GOSUB350

IFL=0THENGOSUB835: IFRTHEN638

H=PEEK(P) :PRINT"<SS>" ; : GOSUB320: NEXT : PRINT : RETURN

W= I NT ( H/ 1 6 ) : H=H-W» 1 6 : GOSUB330 : W=H

U=W+48: IFW> 57THENW=U+7

PRINTCHR* (W) ; : RETURN

H= I NT ( P/256) : Z=P-H*256 : GOSUB320 : H=Z : GOTO320

PRINT-YES?" ; :GOSUB380: IFRTHENRETURN

S=E: PRINT") " ;

H*="" :GOSUB820: IFRTHENRETURN

H*="00"+H*:E=H:H*=MID*<H*,LEN(H*)-3,2) :GOSUB870:E=E+H#256: PRINT : RETURN

L*0: INPUT"PRINTER OUTPUT (Y/N) " ; P*: IFLEFT* (P*, 1 ) ="Y"THENL=1 :0PEN4, 4, 0:CMD4

RETURN

READY.

Program listing. Periscope program, designed for Commodore-64 or VIC-20.

When a value has been entered, the
program will display the converted
value in the two other number bases
supported. A decimal number will be
displayed as an integer value. A hexa-
decimal number will be displayed as
four hex characters. A binary number
will be displayed as two groups of
eight digits (the binary representation
of two bytes).

After the converted values are dis-
played, the program will display the
(1 = DEC 2 = HEX 3 = BIN)? prompt
and another base and value can be
entered, or the X key pressed to return
to the menu.

Option 5: End— The end option
checks to make sure the printer is dis-
abled and then ends the program and
returns control to the Commodore
Basic screen editor.

Program Description

The Periscope program was designed
to provide a useful utility while using
as little memory as possible. With this
in mind, as many statements as possi-
ble are packed into each program line.
REM statements weren't used for the
same reason. When the program is en-
tered, lines 600-610 should be dis-
carded to save space. The program
will then take up approximately 3000
bytes of memory when entered, and
approximately 3785 bytes of memory
when run.

The program can be condensed fur-
ther by using the abbreviated two-key
commands supported by Commodore
Basic. For example, lines 611 and 615
can be combined. The data statements
in lines 783-798 can be condensed in-
to fewer total lines. The program was
written as it is to make it easier to
enter the listing, since lines built with
abbreviated two-key commands usu-
ally exceed 80 characters on the Com-
modore-64 and 88 characters on the
VIC-20 when listed to the screen.
Even though the tokenized line fits in-
to a basic line in memory, the line can-
not be edited on the screen without
losing data, so the line must be re-
typed from scratch to correct mis-
takes. The program should be typed in
as listed, run to indicate any errors,
and corrected. After it runs correctly,
it can be further condensed.

The program listing can be used as
is on a Commodore-64. One line
should be changed to run the program
on the VIC-20. In line 900, the value
(P-S)/8 appears twice. Change 8 to 6
in both places, and the dump option
will fit the VIC-20 screen width.

On an unexpanded VIC-20, you

66 Microcomputing, September 1983

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Microcomputing, September 1983 67

may want to delete certain options to
give you more free memory space
when you run Periscope. For exam-
ple, by deleting lines 670-696 and by
deleting the value 670 from line 655
and PRINT "4) CONVERT:" from
line 640 and then changing PRINT "5)
END" to PRINT "4) END", the entire
convert option will be removed from
the program. As a means for further
modification of the program, a de-
scription of the routines follows.

Lines 611-620: This routine initial-
izes and fills two arrays with data. Ar-
ray M$ contains a character string for
each 6502/6510 assembly mnemonic.
Array 0% contains packed values that,
when unpacked, provide a pointer in-
to array M$ and a pointer to appropri-
ate subroutines for printing a specific
6502/6510 addressing mode.

Lines 630-659: These lines contain
the main program routine, which dis-
plays the menu of options in lines 630
and 640, inputs the option selected in
line 645 and calls the printer reset and
address entry subroutines in line 650.
Line 655 vectors the program to the
appropriate option subroutine.

Lines 665-667: This routine is called
to disable output to the printer.

Line 660: This line calls the printer

disable routine and then ends the
program.

Lines 670-696: The convert option
routine prints the convert prompt in
line 670. Lines 672-682 input the base
selection, print the number base
prompt and call the conversion sub-
routines. Lines 684-686 convert a bi-
nary entry into a decimal number and
then call the decimal number print
routine at line 688.

A decimal number is converted to
binary, and then printed as a 16-bit bi-
nary number in lines 690-694. Line
696 calls a subroutine at line 950; this
subroutine converts a decimal num-
ber to hexadecimal and prints the
hexadecimal characters.

Line 698: This routine provides a
method for bailing out of a For. . .
Next loop and returning to the menu.
If a subroutine is exited without doing
a return, or if a For . . . Next loop is ex-
ited early, the 6502/6510 stack register
will fill up with garbage and result in
an Out Of Memory error when there
is actually machine memory
available. This routine tidies up the
machine internals when bailing out of
a loop.

Lines 700-782: This routine contains
the disassemble option. Line 700 calls

the printer enable subroutine, and
then initiates a For . . . Next loop from
a beginning to ending memory ad-
dress. If the printer is enabled, the
program then jumps to line 720.
Otherwise, line 705 is executed; it
calls the interrupt routine at line 950
to check for a stop output condition.

The program then loads a value
from a memory address and uses this
value to point to an element in array
0%. The array element is then divided
by 100 to point to an assembler lan-
guage mnemonic in array M$. The
division results in an integer number
that is then multiplied by 100 and sub-
tracted from the value of the element
of array 0%. The result is used in line
720 to direct the program to the cor-
rect subroutine to print the operand in
the required 6502/6510 addressing
mode. These subroutines are located
from line 725 to line 782.

Lines 783-798: These lines contain
the data values used to load array
M$ and array 0% when the program
is first run.

Lines 800-810: This routine contains
the patch option. A For . . . Next loop
starts in line 800 from the beginning
to the ending address. The program
then calls the decimal-to-hexadecimal

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68 Microcomputing, September 1983

conversion routine at line 950 and
prints a memory location. The hex in-
put subroutine is called at line 820,
and the entered data is written to the
memory location by line 810.

Lines 820-890: This routine inputs
two hexadecimal characters from the
keyboard and converts the value to a
decimal number. The routine sets a
return flag (R) to 1 if an exit from the
routine is requested by the X key be-
ing pressed.

Lines 895#898: This routine is the
interrupt request subroutine called by
the dump and disassemble options to
check for a stop output request.

Lines 900-910: This routine contains
the dump option. Line 900 calls the
printer enable subroutine, and then
initiates a For . . . Next loop from
beginning to ending address. The pro-
gram then checks for end-of-screen
condition, and then calls the decimal-
to-hexadecimal conversion routine at
line 950. Line 905 calls the interrupt
request subroutine at line 895 if out-
put is being displayed to the screen,
and then loads a value from a memory
location and calls the decimal-to-
hexadecimal conversion and print
routine at line 920.

Lines 920-950: This routine converts
a decimal number into hexadecimal
characters. If entered at line 950, four
hexadecimal characters are printed. If
entered at line 920, two hexadecimal
characters are printed.

Lines 970-975: This routine is the
beginning and ending address entry
routine. The Yes? prompt is printed
by line 970, and then the program
calls the hex address to decimal ad-
dress calculation routine at line 980
and 985.

Line 980 clears variable H$, calls the
hex character input routine at line 820
and then executes line 985 to convert
the hex characters to a decimal
number.

Lines 990-993: This subroutine
prints the printer output prompt and
enables the printer when answered by
a Y response from the keyboard.

Conclusions

The Periscope program provides a
useful utility and simple monitor for
entering and displaying machine lan-
guage programs. Its purpose is to help
newer users of the Commodore-64
and VIC-20 to get to know their ma-
chines better. It also provides a way to
enter short programs written in
6502/6510 machine language hex
codes into the machines. With this
program running, and with a copy of

The Programmer's Reference Guide for
the Commodore-64 or VIC-20 at hand,
the inner workings of either machine
should become more understandable.
(For those readers who dislike

typing listings into their machines,
send a self-addressed stamped mailer,
a blank tape and $3 to Wizard Works
Software Engineering, and we'll send
you a copy of the program. )■

'3iaaj^(sf«i]saaa:iaia4UK3

1) DUMP

2) PATCH

3> DISASSEMBLE

4) CONVERT

5) END

OPTION ? 1
VES7C200

>C220

PRINTER OUTPUT CV/N>? N

C206 R9 32 28 D2 FF 60 FF FF

C208 FF FF FF FF FF FF FF ©9

C210 FF FF FF FF FF FF FF FF

C218 00 FF FF FF FF FF FE 04

C220 FF

VES7C100

>C10F

PRINTER OUTPUT CV/N>? N

CI 00 FF 00 FF 00 FF FF FF FF
CI 08 FF FF FF FF FF FF FF 00
VES?

'9»slfsMi]d3a:i:i3

1) DUMP

2) PATCH

3) DISASS

: ;EMELE

4) CONVERT

5::- END

OPTION ?

VES7C200

>C205

C20O A9

C201 32

C202 20

C203 D2

C204 FF

C265 60

VES7C206

>C207

C206 00

C207 00

TC.J :

•asaaisiiMiasmias

1) DUMP

2) PATCH

3) DISASSEMBLE

4!:- CONVERT
5) END

OPTION ? 3

VES"'C200

>C20A

PRINTER OUTPUT < V/N>? N

C200 LDR #*32

C202 JSR *FFD2

C203 RTS

C206 BRK

C20? BRK

C208 ?' T -'?

C209 ???

C20R ???
VES?

\m9tt**jm:x:<

DUMP

PRTCH

3 )

DISRSSEMELE

CONVERT

5 )

END

OPTION ? 4

<i«

■DEC 2-HEX

■BIN)

HE^

<?C29Q

DEC

> 49664

E I N= 11000010

00000000

(1-DEC 2-HEX 3-BIN) ?

DEC? 1024
HEX=0400

EIN=00000100 00000000

CI -DEC 2-HEX 3-BIN) ?

'SsiasifSimaismiaisi

1) DUMP

2) PRTCH

3) DISRSSEMELE

4) CONVERT

5) END

OPTION ? 4

CI -DEC 2-HEX 3-BIN) ?

BIN? 11110000

DEC= 240
HEX-MF0

(1-DEC 2-HEX 3-BIN) ?

BIN? 1111000010101010

DEC- 61610
HEX-F0AA

(1-DEC 2-HEX 3-BIN) ?

■»siaa«Wi]s:mias

1) DUMP

2) PRTCH

3) DISRSSEMELE

4) CONVERT

5) END

OPTION ? 5
READV .

Fig. 1. Sample run of Periscope program.

Microcomputing, September 1983 69

Space Reservations Confirmed

This useful utility lets the more serious Timex/Sinclair user

make use of space in upper memory.

By John Jainschigg

POKE 16388, (RAMTOP - #bytes) - INT ((((RAMTOP - #bytes)/256) * 256))

POKE 16389, INT ((RAMTOP - #bytes)/256)

NEW

Listing 1. Usual approach to RAMTOP reset.

ADDRESS /MNEMONIC /

CODE

16515

SCF

55 ;

16516

CCF

63 ;

i clear carry

16517

LD(16507)SP

237,115,123,64 |

; store SP

16521

LD BC( 16507)

237,75,123,64 i

I SP into BC

16525

LD HL( 16388)

42,4,64

I RAMTOP into HL

16528

SBC HL,BC

237,66 !

I RAMTOP-SP=sector length

16530

LD DE,HL

84,93 !

! result in DE

16532

LD BC,OFFLO,

OFFHI

1,0,0 !

1 offset into BC

1 6535

LD HL( 16388)

42,4,64 i

I RAMTOP into HL

16538

SBC HL.BC

237,66 ;

; RAMTOP-o-f -f set=new value

16540

LD(16388)HL

237,99,4,64 i

! into RAMTOP

16544

LD HL( 16386)

42,2,64

! ERR-SP into HL

16547

SBC HL,BC

237,66 i

! ERR-SP-o-f f set =new value

16549

LD(16386)HL

237,99,2,64 :

i into ERR-SP

16553

LD HL(16507)

42,123,64 i

I SP into HL

16556

SBC HL,BC

237,66 i

; SP— o-f -f set=new value

16558

LD SP,HL

249 i

! into SP

16559

LD BC,DE

66,75 !

; length o-f block into BC

16561

LD DE,HL

84,93

» dest. of move into DE

16563

LD HL( 16507)

42,123,64 i

; start address into HL

16566

LDIR

237,176

; block copy loop

16568

RET

201 i

; return to BASIC

16569

AND A

151

! clear carry

16570

LD(16507)SP

237,115,123,64 i

I store SP

16574

LD HL(16507)

42,123,64

! SP into HL

16577

LD BC(16412)

237,75,28,64 i

I STKND into BC

16581

SBC HL,BC

237,66 :

• det. free space

16583

LD BC,HL

68,77 i

S result into BC

16585

RET

201 i

; and out

Listing 2. Spacemaker subroutine— an alternative

approach to RAMTOP reset

Every Sinclair ZX-81 (and TS-1000)
programmer must be familiar
with the technique of resetting the
system variable RAMTOP to procure
space in upper memory.

RAMTOP reserve space has sev-
eral intriguing qualities: it is immo-
bile and entirely immune to func-
tions of Basic ROM (such as NEW
and LOAD), making it ideal not only
for the storage of machine code rou-
tines, but also a tempting resource for
use in binary data storage schemes
and program-to-program communi-
cations. Unfortunately for those who
wish to experiment with these more
exotic applications, the simple Basic
procedure most commonly used for
RAMTOP reset is inappropriate for
several reasons.

Normal Approach

Listing 1 demonstrates the usual
approach. The Basic statements are
entered from command mode on
power-up.

The number of bytes of storage
space required is subtracted from the
normal value of RAMTOP (corre-
sponding to the current configuration
of the TS-1000), and the result is poked
to the system variable in high/low
format. A NEW command then should

Address correspondence to John B. Jainschigg, 308
East 90th St., New York, NY 10028.

system
variables

program

display
file

4
variables

keyboard
buffer

6
calculator
stack

7
FREE

8
machine
stack

9
GOSUB

10
RAMTOP
reserve

16384

16509

D-FILE

VARS

E-LINE

STKBOT

STKEND

Stack
pointer

ERR-SP

RAMTOP

Fig. L

Memory map showing ROM patterns of the TS-1000 /ZX-81.

70 Microcomputing, September 1983

be executed to zero system RAM and
to rearrange it beneath the new RAM-
TOP address.

NEW is the only Basic command
that incorporates reformatting. Unfor-
tunately, it does so in a manner
destructive to the contents of memo-
ry, for which reason a Basic program
cannot use a runtime variant of the
above procedure to create space in
high memory for its own use. Instead,
the user must anticipate the need for
RAMTOP reserve and create it prior
to loading application programs.

This two-step obligation is cumber-
some in itself, and the result of it has
been to limit the use of RAMTOP re-
serve space by Basic programmers to
schemes requiring predictable amounts
of offset— offset that can be calculated
and prepared ahead of runtime.

Another Way

The subroutine Spacemaker (see
Listing 2) constitutes an alternative ap-
proach to RAMTOP reset. Spacemaker
creates RAMTOP reserve space in a
nondestructive way— by reformatting
the upper end of system memory. It
allows a Basic program that incor-
porates it to conjure any degree of
RAMTOP offset during execution and
to put that space to immediate use.

The mechanics of the subroutine
are simple. When power is first ap-
plied to the TS-1000, the bootstrap
procedure of the ROM formats avail-
able memory in the pattern shown in
the memory map (Fig.l). The various
partitioned blocks are herded into
two broad sectors above and below a
central reservoir of free space. The
upper sector of system memory,
comprising the gosub and machine
stacks, is based at RAMTOP and
builds downward, starting at the ad-
dress immediately beneath the RAM-
TOP boundary.

Besides RAMTOP, two additional
pointers define the upper sector: the
system variable ERR-SP, which
marks the top (read "bottom") of the
gosub stack, and the stack pointer
register which marks the top (as
above) of the machine stack. Creating
RAMTOP reserve space is a matter of

1 REM "(71

spaces) "

5000

FOR X =

=16515 TO 16585

5010

INPUT

5020

z\ . ii it .

5030

POKE X,A

5040

NEXT X

Listing

3. Basic loader.

shifting the upper sector of system
memory downward by the desired
offset, and altering RAMTOP, ERR-
SP and the stack pointer by the same
value so that they point once more to
appropriate addresses.

Basic is not a practical tool for this
operation, however. One reason is
that the stack pointer, an internal
register of the Z-80 processor, cannot
be changed directly by Basic com-
mands. Another is that the block of
bytes we wish to move is used inten-
sively by the Basic system to manage
program execution.

The solipsistic conflict that would
result from trying to use Basic to
relocate bytes whose values are simul-

taneously required to manage the
relocation would likely result in a
system crash (how's that again?). In
machine code, though, the procedure
is extremely straightforward, as the
subroutine's comments will show.

The Basic loader in Listing 3 serves
to place the decimal opcodes of
Spacemaker in a REM statement #1,
71 bytes in length, starting at address
16515 at the beginning of your Basic
program listing. To use the subrou-
tine, incorporate steps into the body
of the program to poke the number of
bytes of space required, in high/low
format, to subroutine variables
OFFLO and OFFHI at addresses 16533
and 16534. Spacemaker then may be

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MC-9

Circle 67 on Reader Service card.

Put your Micro
on IBM's level

Now you can communicate with the IBft/r
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IBM is a trademark of International Business Machines Corp.
Apple is a trademark of Apple Computer Inc.
TRS-80 is a trademark of the Tandy Corporation.

called via a statement RAND USR
16515.

Note

When using Spacemaker, be careful
not to set off more free space than is
currently available to Basic. If you do,
the utility will copy the upper end of
the system RAM over the calculator
stack, and a dazzling system crash will
result. To help forestall this catastro-
phe, Spacemaker incorporates a sub-
utility, Free (in bytes 16569-16585),
which calculates how much space you
have available. Free should be called
prior to Spacemaker by incorporating
the statement:

LET SPACE = USR 16569

into your Basic program. As long as the
value returned for Space is somewhat
greater than the number of bytes you
wish to reserve, you should be okay.

The subroutine uses the free dou-
ble byte at 16507 and 16508 as a
storage register during execution.
The routine is relocatable as long
as the new locations of OFFLO and
OFFHI are taken into account, and the
relevant poke statements are altered
accordingly. ■

Circle 148 on Reader Service card.

Controlled Data Recording Systems, Inc.

For Heath/ Zenith 89 & 90 Computers

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72 Microcomputing, September 1983

Circle

300 on

Reader Se^ce

d - oted ° .. att about ^ . -gjgSS *• *— „ >nd ,

d " S IP to a« about

commf "STc«>^ vox-

Traosrn^f^es.ca^^puter
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Subscnbe no c0 mmun>cate. ^

r - * * „t my computer xo a rs ^

r Yes, ^ ant v , $36- 95

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Send to, I**** v80 0^A3^300 ^

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V For immediate

How to quickly le

If you'd like to turn the agony
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into the ecstasy of total control,
you Ve come to the right place.

Because even if you Ve starting
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and monitor all that information,
and manipulate it in ways that
will make your business a

pleasure— all with an Apple® III
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Attain instant
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An Apple III, teamed with the
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can put every basic accounting
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that means

General Ledger, Accounts
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and Payroll— all in one package.
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With BPI, your Apple III can
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gain your balance.

on your customers and vendors.

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And where to give credit where
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Ichiban Fish Supply Coup any

Consolidated IncoM SUtenent

Current Comparative

Periods Ending Nay 31 1983 and Nay 31 1982

Nay 31, 1983

Nay 31. 1982 *

lucm

Contract Sales
Retail Sales

Total Incone

Cost of Sales

Cost of Contract Sales
Cost Of Retail Sales

Total Cost of Sales
Cross Profit

52,818 82 91 3 44,176 52 92 7
5,816 88 8 7 3. 588 88 7 3

57,834 98 188 8 47. 676 52 1

37,338 86 64 6 31,886 55 66 7
4,879 85 8 4 3,489 35 7 2

42,289 85 73 8 35,215 98 73 9

15,625 85 27 8 12 468 62 26 1

Your Apple can generate instant income statements
(with expense ratios) or balance sheets, and let you
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feature allows you to make credit
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In business as in life,
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And where it s not.

Ichiban Fish Supply CoMpany
Merchandise Purchased By Due Date

As Of 95 31 8*

• Vendor
Date No Naae

Invoice Acct
Nunber No.

85/82/83 1 Hrrirra World 35278532 5818-81
Oue 86/83/83

85/85/83 2 Consolidated Cod 4562 5818-81
Due 86/85/83

85/85/83 3 Levy Sushi Farn 212 5818-81

Due 86/85/83

85/85/83 4Nussel Hen. Inc 657 5818-81

Oue 86/85/83

Detail Net Ant

581 23

289 36

459 88

1,237 85

It can also allow you to take full advantage of
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The impressively professional

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More ways Apples pay.

There are more people in more
places doing more things with

To avoid fishy transactions, you can instantly
display customers payments, charges and current
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would put Mr. Moser over his $2,000 limit.

Apples than with any other
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Because for one thing, there's
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Call (800) 538-9696 for the location of the authorized Apple dealer nearest you, or for information regarding our National Account Program. In Canada, call
(800) 268-7796 or (800) 268-7637. Or write Apple Computer Inc., Advertising and Promotion Dept., 20525 Mariani Ave., Cupertino, CA 95014. © 1983 Apple Computer Inc.

Circle 193 on Reader Service card.

The NEC 8023 A:
A New Breed of Printer

NEC's dot-matrix printer features versatility that is unmatched

by anything under $1000. Selling for $695, the 8023A offers 100

cpi, good graphics, a proportional space mode and other

impressive features.

By Bruce D. Carbrey

When you look at today's crop of
low-cost printers, it seems al-
most impossible that only five years
ago about the only thing you could get
in the $500 range was a reconditioned
Teletype that clanked along at ten
characters per second— if you were
handy enough to rig up your own 30
milliamp interface and figure out how
to convert from ASCII to Baudot code!

Now, thanks to on-board single-chip
microcomputers, printers have stan-
dard features that would have seemed
right out of Fantasyland back when
the Model 33 was the only game in
town. The NEC 8023A typifies this
new breed.

I looked for a printer for a long time
before the NEC 8023 came along. When
it did, I didn't take long to make up
my mind. This was the first printer
that fit my budget, had reasonable
speed for listings (100 characters per
second), had good dot-matrix graphics

and could produce adequate quality
printing for documentation.

I was amazed to discover that it
could also print proportional-width
characters and microspace between
them. This feature is found infre-
quently in printers costing four times
as much. A little comparison shop-
ping revealed that I could find the
printer discounted at under $500, so I
ordered one.

The first thing I noticed when I
opened the carton and took out my
new printer was that it is heavy for its
size, much heavier than an Epson MX-
80. A quick under- the- hood inspection
revealed the reason— metal.

Inside the plastic case is a lot more
metal than most of the other small
printers I've seen. The head/ribbon
mechanism slides on a half-inch metal
cylinder in a metal chassis. Instead of
the familiar "rubber band" drive belt,
the print mechanism is moved by a

cable on steel pulleys, similar to the
Diablo Hytype II.

The next thing I noticed was the
strange placement of the pin-feed
mechanism. Instead of pulling the
paper in the conventional fashion, the
8023 sprockets push the paper under
the platen from behind.

At first, I had some doubts about
this arrangement, but I have since dis-
covered the beauty of it.

Since paper passes over the pin feed
before it reaches the printhead, you
don't have to waste the first sheet of
paper when lining up the top of the
form under the printhead. There's a
nice slot for loading single sheets from
the top of the printer, too. I fed some
fanfold paper in from behind the unit
with no problem, and then I fired it up.

That's when I found my first prob-
lem with the NEC. The printer pro-
duces a high-pitched hum when it is
on— about 12kHz, I'd guess. In a nor-
mally noisy office or when actually
printing, this hum is not noticeable.
But in a quiet room it can become an-
noying to the point where I turn it off
when not actually printing. I thought
this might be a problem with my par-
ticular printer, but I have now seen
three other 8023s, and they all hum.

Following the instructions, I held
down the TOF (top of form) button
while turning on the power switch to
activate the self-test. The printer
functioned perfectly, printing out its
character set in a variety of character

NEC's 8023A is a dot-matrix printer that prints 100 cpi and costs $695.
76 Microcomputing, September 1983

Address correspondence to Bruce Carbrey, 704 Cur-
rituck Drive, Raleigh, NC 27609.

sizes. Then I set out to hook it up to my
computer.

Two manuals are furnished with the
printer. One is the regular typeset
manual that is oriented towards oper-
ation with the NEC computer. The
other is a photocopied manual printed
for Apple owners.

If you own an Apple or a NEC
computer, the manuals are fine. I
don't. All the essential information is
there for other computers; it just takes
a little longer to dig it out.

There is a summary of programming
codes in the back of the manual, but in
order to get a narrative description of
how to use them, you need to refer to
the front section, which gives ex-
amples in NEC Basic.

The Apple manual appears to be
comprehensive and explains how to
deal with all the idiosyncrasies of the
Apple, such as the fact that the Apple
outputs the most significant bit high.
The 8023 normally expects bit 7 to be
high only when the extended char-
acter set (i.e., Greek) is being selected.
Fortunately for Apple users, the full
character set can still be used by set-
ting a DIP switch on the printer to ig-
nore bit 7; instead it uses an escape se-
quence to select the extended font.

After I had connected my cable to
the parallel port of my computer and
had written a software driver, I
thought I was in business, but the
NEC refused to print. A recheck of the
manual revealed that the printer is
shipped from the factory with the DIP
switches set so that the printer is not
selected on power-up. It must be en-
abled by pushing the SEL button. Not

seeing much logic in this choice, I
changed the DIP switches to have the
printer ready when it was turned on,
and it ran like a champ.
Programming the various modes of

A Capsule Look

At the NEC 8023 Printer

Manufacturer

NEC America, Inc., Consumer Products

Division, 1401 EstesAve., Elk Grove Village,

IL 60007

Price

$695

Features

Eight different character sizes; full upper and
lowercase (with descenders) ASCII character
set plus 120 additional characters, including
Greek and character graphics; jumpers to en-
able specialized fonts for U.S., United King-
dom, Germany, Sweden or Japan; lines up to
136 columns wide in compressed mode; pro-
portional type with microspacing between
characters; bidirectional logic-seeking print-
ing; 100 cps maximum print rate; 7 by 9 dot
matrix character cell; 8 by n dot matrix
graphics up to 1280 dots wide; line spacing of
1/6, 1/8 inch or N/144 inch; forward and
reverse paper feed; pin and friction feed;
paper width 4 to 10 inches; fanfold, roll or
single sheet paper; one original plus three
copies; parallel interface; out-of-paper de-
tector; cartridge ribbon; self-test.
Interface

Parallel interface standard, using a standard
36 pin D connector (only two control and
eight data lines are actually used); RS-232
serial interface optional.
Documentation

Seventy-eight-page user manual; 43-page
supplement for Apple users.

the 8023 is easy. Most mode changes
are made by sending an ASCII ESC
character (IB hex or 27 decimal) fol-
lowed by a one-character selection
code. For example, ESC, P selects pro-
portional type and ESC,E selects
elite type.

These can be output directly from
Basic if you wish. To select bit-
mapped graphics mode, you send
ESC, S, followed by four decimal dig-
its specifying the number of bytes of
graphics data to follow. Each succeed-
ing byte represents eight vertical dots
to be printed, one per bit. Normally
you send a whole line of bytes and
then a CR (carriage return).

When I first wrote my graphics
driver, I had trouble getting good ver-
tical alignment between adjacent lines.
Vertical lines appeared wavy on the
page. After a little experimenting, I
determined that this was apparently

causing lines to start slightly out of
position.

Luckily the cure was simple. Just
send two carriage returns (but only
one linefeed). Sending the second
carriage return will correct the bounce
and give the lines nearly perfect
alignment.

Another potential small problem
with the graphics mode is that the
8023 doesn't have master reset com-
mand available from software. This
means that if you abort a program that
is printing graphics, you will have to
turn the printer off and back on before
it will respond properly to input. This
is because it is still interpreting all in-
coming characters as the remaining

Circle 90 on Reader Service card

A / D 8 channels + D/ A 8 channels

APPLY YOUR MICRO TO ANALOG
SIGNAL PROCESSING & CONTROL

Connects to p processor buss of most Z80 & 6502
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EASY TO PROGRAM: One PEEK chooses the chan-
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SOFTWARE AVAILABLE: FFT in Z80, 256 points in
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Circle 233 on Reader Service card.

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Microcomputing, September 1983 77

graphics bytes.

The 8023 has a remarkable reper-
toire of characters and fonts. When
smaller character sizes are selected,
the motor slows down, so that the 100
cps (characters per second) specifica-
tion applies only to the standard pica
type. Selecting the enhanced mode,
which increases the dot density of
characters, also slows down the print-
ing process. The paper can be advanced
in either direction. To back up, you
send an ESC, r (for reverse). There-
after, all linefeeds will be in the re-
verse direction until you send an ESC, f.

You can select the size of a linefeed
in units of 1/144 inch. This makes it
easy to issue a half-line feed in either
direction for subscripts or super-
scripts. There is a problem here,
though. Due to backlash in the paper
advance mechanism, a backward line-
feed followed by a forward linefeed
will not return the printhead to the
same position it started on. This can
be alleviated considerably by using
only friction feed instead of pin feed.
The designers evidently noticed this
too, because page 2 of the manual cau-
tions: When mixed printing in both
the forward and reverse directions is

Circle 1 1 1 on Reader Service card.

CP/M

FOR YOUR COMMODORE- C-64

• Run All CPM ' Formated Software

• Supports 5/ 4 " or 8" Disk Drives

• Z-80, Disk and DMA Controller on
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• Plugs into the Commodore 64" Expansion
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• Uses Soft Sectored IBM 5/ 4 " and 8" Format
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Interface Card cqqOO

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Interface Card AnnP®

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" Commodore 64 is a registered trademark of
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*CP/M is a registered trademark of Digital Research, Inc.

To Order

Phone (913) 827-0629
825 N. 5th Street
engineering, inc. Salina, Kansas 67401

to be performed, care must be exer-
cised in loading the paper, since the
paper may slip, causing improper
printing while being fed by pin or by
friction.
Unfortunately, I couldn't find any

The graphics printing of the

NEC 8023 is the best IVe seen

on a small printer.

amount of "care" that could complete-
ly solve the problem. Also, although
the manual doesn't say so, line feeds
can only be issued in "incremental
mode," not in bidirectional mode.

One of the most engaging features
of the 8023 is the proportional print
mode. When using the proportional
font, all characters are not the same
width, but occupy a "natural" amount
of space, just like newsprint.

If you print two lines with the same
number of characters in each line, the
lines in general won't be the same
width unless they have the same char-
acters in them. A table in the back of
the manual gives the width of each
character, from seven to 16 dots.

After each proportional character is
printed, you can move the printhead
to the right by zero to six dots; this is
called "microspacing." To achieve an
attractive, flush-right justification of
printed text, a special print program
can be used. The general idea of the
program is as follows. For each line,
the total number of dots occupied by
characters is computed by adding up
the width of each individual
character, using a table of character
sizes. This width is subtracted from
the total desired column width in dots.
Dividing this number by the number
of characters in the line will give the
number of dots of microspacing that
need to be sent after each character.
The resulting output is much more at-
tractive than inserting extra blanks
between words to achieve flush- right
justification.

As long as you stick with normal
text, the 8023 works fine using pro-
portional mode and microspacing.
Unfortunately, if you try to do any-
thing tricky, such as printing char-
acters in the extended character set,
subscripting, superscripting or back-

spacing (which the 8023 can do!), the
printer apparently becomes "confused"
about where it should be printing and
prints in the wrong place. I would
guess this is symptomatic of a bug in
the ROM software driver for the
8023' s microprocessor. If you don't
use microspacing between characters,
it works fine except for backspace.

The only other complaint I have
with the printer concerns the horizon-
tal placement of the pin-feed sprock-
ets. The left sprocket can't be moved
far enough to the left to allow you to
print a listing more than V4-inch from
the left edge.

You can partially solve this problem
by sending the printer a software com-
mand to move the left margin over by
a specified number of spaces. Unfor-
tunately, if you tell the printer to
move the left margin over four spaces,
it automatically sets the right margin
to 76 instead of 80, so now you can't
print the full 80 columns. I wouldn't
mind if the right margin were reduced
instead; I just want to be able to punch
my printout for a three-ring binder
without punching holes in the text.
Maybe the printer is too smart for its
own good in this case!

I've had my 8023 for ten months
now, and have really given it a
thorough workout. I suspect that most
of the little bugs I've discovered prob-
ably would go completely undetected
and unnoticed in more normal use.
I've totally worn out three ribbons,
and printed several 200-page listings
without a bit of trouble.

Unlike several other printers I have
used, which got hot and started over-
printing lines when faced with long
listings, the NEC stays cool and cor-
rect even after four hours of con-
tinuous printing. Although the manu-
facturer does not quote a specification
for printhead life, the head has a big
finned heat sink and looks like it
should have a long life.

The graphics printing of the NEC is
the best I've seen on a small printer,
and doesn't require an extra cost
ROM. In the enhanced mode, the
characters produced by the NEC are
of good quality; not as good as a daisy
wheel printer, of course, but close. In
terms of versatility, I think this printer
is unmatched by anything under $ 1000.
Since I bought my 8023, I've had the
opportunity to extensively use a num-
ber of other printers, including the Ep-
son MX-80 and MX- 100, the IDS
Paper Tiger series and the new IDS
Prism. I'm sure I made the right
choice. ■

78 Microcomputing, September 1983

Circle 1 70 on Reader Service card

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Microcomputing, September 1983 79

Disk User or Disk Duffer?

If you're a micro disk dilettante, then this first of a two-part
article will help you get the most out of your disk system

through random access file use.

By Dan Bishop

Are you a Disk User or a Disk
Duffer?

A Disk User makes the most out of
the capabilities of a disk system and
uses random access disk files like they
were going out of style. A Disk Duffer
avoids random access files if at all pos-
sible, settling for the more easily un-
derstood, but clumsier, sequential ac-
cess approach.

Having cut his teeth on cassette data
storage, the duffer finds the transition
to disk easier to make if the disk files
are set up using sequential access.
Never mind the fact that the beautiful
advantage of a disk system is its ran-
dom access capability with the corre-
sponding increase in speed and effi-
ciency. Random access is too hard to
figure out, right?

Wrong! In fact, random access need
not even be understood in order to be
used effectively. Of course, if you're
dealing with field statements and sub-
records, and if you're calculating a
subrecord's position within a record
and handling all of the nitty-gritty de-
tails, random access can be difficult to
use without considerable experience.
However, most of the work with ran-

dom access disk files can be handled
by the computer.

By using a standard set of program
instructions that will handle any ran-
dom access file, you can write rather
complicated programs in which all of
the information pertinent to a specific
application is entered using simple da-
ta statements. Let the computer worry
about opening the files, positioning
the subrecords, fielding the buffer and
getting or putting the records. As long
as your data statements are correct,
the random access to disk information
will proceed smoothly.

In this article, I'll provide the Basic
instruction set that will uncomplicate
the random access I/O procedures,
and I'll explain how to use the MID$
functions to help accomplish this goal.
I'll also describe a sample program in
which you use these techniques; it'll
allow you to set up a 366-day date-
book calendar for recording special
dates and appointments.

Preliminary Planning

As with any programming project,
the effectiveness of the resulting pro-
gram is determined to a large extent

File Name: MAILLIST/DAT
Total Bytes per Subrecord: 5 1

Number

Item Name

Variable

Start

End

of Bytes

Byte

Name

NM$

Address

AD$

City

CT$

State

ST$

Zip Code

zc$

Fig. 1. Form for documenting specifications for random access disk file data.

during the initial planning stages. It is
necessary to accurately predict just
what information will need to be
stored on disk and how that informa-
tion should be arranged.

One of the characteristics of random
access files is that predefined field
lengths are used for each item of infor-
mation they contain.

You'll need to know how many
bytes of memory storage to allocate to
each item being stored. If you're stor-
ing names, will 20 characters be suffi-
cient, or should we use 25? Should a
given number be stored as an integer
(requiring two bytes), a single-preci-
sion number (requiring four bytes) or
a double-precision number (requiring
eight bytes)? The answers to these
questions will determine how we set
up our disk files.

The first step is to make a list of all
of the items that will need to be stored
for each record. Beside each item in
the list, write the number of bytes you
expect to use for that item. (A mail list
program may require only a small num-
ber of items, such as name, address,
city, state and zip code. An accounts
receivable or inventory program may
have dozens of items relating to each
record.)

It's good practice at this point to
think about possible applications that
are not being done, but which might be
useful, and to include additional items
for each record, allowing the program
to support such future innovations.

Now look at the list and categorize
the items according to function. De-
cide if you want all of the information
you have listed in a single file or if you

Address correspondence to Dan Bishop, PO Box
429, Buena Vista, CO 81211.

80 Microcomputing, September 1983

Circle 130 on Reader Service card.

Don't take it out on your hardware.
The problem could be your software.

This photograph is a duplicate <»t the one appearing in an advertisement

by Ashton-Tate, a competitor of Micro Data Base Systems, Inc.

UpJ

lllllllllllllllll

Get KnowledgeMan.

The all-in-one software with the data management edge.

Let's face it. Many 8-bit products like
dBASE II weren't designed for the new gener
ation of 16-bit micros. So you can't do all the
things your application may require. With
KnowledgeMan you won't be frustrated by
typical 8-bit software limitations... so you can
go easy on the hardware.

• Need more than just 32 fields
per record?

KnowledgeMan allows you up
to 255.

• Wish you could use arrays?
KnowledgeMan allows both one
and two-dimensional arrays.

• Need more than two tables
open at once?
KnowledgeMan allows an unlimi-
ted number to be open. *

• Want security for your applications?
KnowledgeMan provides password checking,
field-level access controls AND encryption.

• Wish you could use parameterized proce-
dures and more than 16 levels of nesting?
KnowledgeMan allows up to 26 parameters in
a procedure, with UNLIMITED nesting.*

• Want to take advantage of your terminal's
color capabilities?

KnowledgeMan supports up to eight colors.

That's just the beginning... KnowledgeMan
is much more than just a relational data
manager. It's a comprehensive system for

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mon

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Big Profits

desktop information processing needs:

• Third Generation Spreadsheet

• Ad Hoc Inquiries (like IBM's SQL/DS)

• Screen I/O Management

• Forms Management

• Structured Programming Language

All are integrated so you can intermingle
various kinds of processing with ease.
For example: You can query your
data base from within the spread-
sheet, and use the results in the
spreadsheet's cells. With
KnowledgeMan you'll
solve MORE problems... pose
MORE questions... simulate
MORE "What-if?" questions.
For financial modeling,
budgeting, sales reporting/analysis, billing
reports, order entry, job costing and more,
KnowledgeMan is the software to choose.

Easy to use. Powerful. And flexible enough
to build your own decision support system.
You can tie it together with MDBS III to
create a distributed processing information
center. You can even interface KnowledgeMan
with your favorite graphics and word
processing packages. And you won't have to
worry about add-on features not included in
the basic package. KnowledgeMan has it all.

So don't be seduced by dBASE II or other
8-bit products revamped to fit the 16-bit

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If you already own a copy,

now's the time to upgrade

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Attn: David Bartkus.

Name

Address

City.

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Zip

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Phone

Operating System: DPCDOS DMSDOS DCP/M-86

Machine/Disk Format:

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192K RAM & 500K mass storage recommended.

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KnowledgeMan, MDBS III are Trademarks of Micro Data Base
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want to divide the information and
use two or more files. For example, an
accounts receivable program may use
one file for client information (which
rarely changes), a second file to con-
tain the client's balance and aging
information (for example, a 30-day
balance), and a third file to record in-
dividual transactions made to that cli-
ent's account.

Now rearrange the list so that all of
the items that you're planning to in-
clude in each file are listed together,
along with their byte counts. Fig. 1
shows an example of a form that is
useful at this stage in the development
process. By including variable names
as well, this form can also become

part of your program documentation.

Next, add up the total number of
bytes that each record will require for
each file. Beware of the fact that infor-
mation is stored on disk in 255-byte
units and that the most efficient use of
your disk space will be obtained if
your byte counts for each file are some
factor of 255.

You may want to make minor ad-
justments (where possible) to the byte
count for specific items to accommo-
date this fact. For example, if your
mail list file requires 54 bytes per rec-
ord, you might cut three bytes off the
name or address fields to bring the
number down to 51 bytes, which
would allow you to get five full rec-

rcnjvlDDM f^CCEISS OISK

l="II_IE: H«tv4DL_E:R ROUTINES

3400

DEFINT F

9410

READ F

3420

dim f*<:f>iFR*<:f:),fl<:f>,fr<:f>

9430

FOR 1=1 TO F

9440

READ F*(X)tFLCD

9490

NEXTI

9495

RETURN

3500

OPEN"R", Li F*<F)

9502

FI = INTC255/FL(F.) )

9504

FP=INT< CFR(F.)-1 > /FD + 1

950G

fs=fr<f>-fi*<:fp~i> -i

9510

field i, <fl<:f:>*fs)Asfd*,fl<f:>asfq*

9520

IF FP>L0F(1> THEN LSETFQ*=STRING*CFLCF> , 32)

: PUT1

, FP

9530

GET 1,FP: IF FA=0 THEN FR*(F)=FQ*: GOTO9550

9540

LSET FQ*=FR*<F> : PUT 1 , FP

9550

CLOSE: RETURN

Listing 1

. Random access handler routines for the TRS-80. Lines 9400-9490 are called at the

begin-

ning of the program and read file information from data statements. Lines 9500-

9550 are

called

whenever a subrecord is loaded from or saved to disk.

RftNDDM P*CCEIE3S DISK
M«MDI_ER ROUTINES
EOR THE IICEeM PC

FIL

9400 DEFINT F

9410 READ F

9420 DIM F*CF)i FR*<:f:>, FLCF). F.RCF)

9430 FOR I = 1 TO F

9440 READ F*C I), FLCF)

9490 NEXT I

9495 RETURN

9500 OPEN " R", 1, F<»CF.) , FLCF)

9510 FIELD 1, FLCF) AS FQ*

9520 GET 1, FRCF): IF LENCFQ*)=0 THEN FQ*=STRING*CFLCF>

9530 GET 1, FRCF): IF FA=0 THEN FR*CF)=FQ*: GOTO9550

9540 LSET FQ*=FR*<F): PUT 1, FRCF)

9550 CLOSE: RETURN

Listing 2. Random access handler routines for the IBM PC. Lines 9400-9490 are called at the begin-
ning of the program and read file information from data statements. Lines 9500-9550 are called
whenever a subrecord is loaded from or saved to disk.

.2): PUT 1, FRCF)

ords into a 255-byte storage unit. (Ac-
tually, the 255-byte unit is referred to
as a full record, and your 51-byte units
are called subrecords).

Good values to use for your subrec-
ord sizes are 127, 85, 63, 51, 42, 36 and
31. These values will maximize use of
the disk storage space.

Yes, You're Ready

You are now ready to set up the pro-
gram to use random access files. Lines
9400-9550 (Listing 1 for the TRS-80;
Listing 2 for the IBM PC) are copied into
the program. If you're using a TRS-80,
you must be sure to clear enough string
space at the start of the program for the
variables you'll be using.

Next, execute a Gosub 9400. Then,
start writing the data statements that
describe the file system you wish to
use. At 9600, enter the number of dif-
ferent files you plan to use. For exam-
ple, if you plan to use four files, then
enter:

9600 DATA 4

Following this are data statements
that specify each file's name and the
total number of bytes you wish to as-
sign to each subrecord within that file.
For example:

9610 DATA "NAMEFILE/DAT ',85
9620 DATA "BALANCE/DAT", 63
9630 DATA "TRNSACTN/DAT',51
9640 DATA "AGING/DAT" ,63

For the IBM PC, substitute a "." for
the "/" in each of the filenames.

You now have all the file manipula-
tion information necessary for the
computer to work with random access
files. Each of the four files above will
be called from the program by a file
number, F.

Thus, to use the NAMEFILE/DAT
file in the example, simply specify
F=l. To use the AGING/DAT file,

specify F = 4.

Two other variables must be speci-
fied. Tell the computer which subrec-
ord you want to work with in the cho-
sen file, using the array variable FR(F)
(for example, FR(F) = 58). And specify
whether you want to retrieve informa-
tion from the file (FA = 0), or if you're
planning to place new or revised in-
formation into the file \¥A=Y). \i
you're adding information, specify
what that information is in the form of
a string, FR$(F). When these variables
have been assigned their appropriate
values, execute a Gosub 9500.

Single String of Info

The disk access subroutine at 9500
will read the disk and provide the en-
tire subrecord as a single string of in-

32 Microcomputing, September 1983

CLIP™, our Command Line Interpretive Program,
makes CP/M more efficient than ever before. It
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Make Your Own Commands

Sequences of commands may be placed in a file to create a
"macro" command.

Macro commands can:

• Take arguments and switches

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• Ask questions

• Conditionally execute commands

• Loop

• READ and WRITE files

• Call upon other macros

Bullt-ln Text Editor

CLIP contains a simple editor for creating macros, programs, or
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Automatic File Searching

Keep commonly accessed files on one disk and user number. CLIP
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Bullt-ln Calculator

The functions +, -, x, -^, Modulus, AND, OR, XOR, and NOT are
available with ten memory registers. Results may be passed to
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A Unix "-like Environment
with I/O Redirection and Pipes

CLIP can direct screen output from a program or macro to a file for
viewing or printing, or cause program input to be taken from a file
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Sophisticated command language

• Conditional command execution

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• Multiple commands per line

• File I/O from the command line

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CLIP is equivalent to a high level programming language, yet
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SR - Search for a pattern in a file

SRT - Simple in memory sorter

UCASE - Convert to upper case

UNIQ - Extract unique entries from a file

WC - Count words, lines and bytes

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84 Microcomputing, September 1983

formation stored in the array variable,

FR$(F), where F corresponds to the

file from which the information was

obtained.
In order to break indivdual data

from this string, use the MD$ function

(described below) as soon as FR$(F)

has been returned by the subroutine

at 9500.

Saving information onto disk in a
specific file's subrecord is just as sim-
ple. If the value for FA is 1, the sub-
routine at 9500 will expect that you're
planning to transfer the string FR$(F)
to the subrecord indicated by FR(F).

Before you go to 9500, use the MID$
function to "load" FR$(F) with the ap-
propriate data. The method for doing
this is described below. Once this has
been done, you can transfer the infor-
mation in FR$(F) to the appropriate
subrecord on the disk by executing a
Gosub 9500.

The MID$ Function

In case you haven't encountered the
MID$ function before, the IBM PC
and Radio Shack's Basic both allow
this function to serve different roles.
The first use of MID$ allows you to
operate on a given string and removes
a smaller section out of that string.

If A$ = "GEORGE WASHINGTON",
then MID$(A$,5,8) would be "GE
WASHI". Within the parentheses are
three items. The first identifies the
string on which you are going to oper-
ate. The number in the middle tells
where the operation is to be per-
formed by specifying the number of
the first byte to be removed, counting
from the beginning of the string.

The third item tells the computer
how many bytes to remove from the
string. In this way, you can break
FR$(F), which is your entire sub-
record returned by the subroutine at
9500, into its individual components.
Handling of numeric information
packed within the string is described
later.

For file-handling purposes, suppose
you wish to retrieve subrecord 93
from disk file 1. The following instruc-
tions accomplish this task:
FA = 0: F=l: FR(F) = 93: GOSUB 9500

The desired subrecord is returned
as a single string, FR$(F). If the first 20
bytes correspond to the client's name,
you may use

NM$ = MID$(FR$(F),1,20)

(which assigns the name to NM$) or
MID$(FR$(F),1,20) whenever you
wish to use the name.

Your choice as to which approach to
use depends on how frequently you

must refer to the information from
within the program. If it must be used
frequently, then NM$ is certainly eas-
ier to type in and allows the program
to operate more efficiently.

Now suppose the next 15 bytes in
FR$(F) correspond to the client's ad-
dress. You can use

AD$= MID$(FR$(F),21,15)

to remove the address from FR$(F). In
this way, each item stored within the
subrecord can be broken out and, if
desired, assigned to specific variable
names.

Out with the Old, In with the New

The second use for the MID$ func-
tion allows you to build up a string of
information by replacing data current-

In case you haven't encountered
the MID$ function before, the

IBM PC and Radio Shack's

Basic both allow this function to

serve different roles.

ly within a string with new data.
When MID$ is used in this way, the
MID$ function appears to the left of
the " = " sign instead of to the right,
and the replacement string is on the
right.

Again, there are three items within
the parentheses. The first identifies
the string being operated upon, the
second tells where the replacement
information is to begin and the third
tells how many bytes are to be re-
placed. Thus, if A$ = " GEORGE
WASHINGTON' ' and B$ = ' MAR-
THA", then MID$(A$,1,6) = B$
would change A$ to "MARTHA
WASHINGTON".

It is this second use of the MID$
function that allows you to add new or
edited information into your random
access disk files.

By defining a string to consist of as
many blank spaces as there are bytes
in your subrecord, and then replacing
those blanks with the information
belonging to that subrecord, you can
build up a string that will contain all of

the information you wish to store to

disk. The string FR$(F) is used for this

purpose, where F again corresponds

to the particular file you are working

with.
The statement

FR$(F) = STRING$(85,32)

produces a string containing 85 blank
characters [Z2 \s the ASCII code for a
blank space). Now, if you have a
name, NM$, to place in the first 20
bytes of this string, and an address to
occupy the next 15 bytes, use the
MID$ function:

MID$(FR$(F) r l,20) = NM$
MID$(FR$(F),21,15) = ADS

You can continue in this fashion
with each different item you wish to
store in the subrecord, ultimately
building a string that contains 85 bytes

If you're editing a subrecord, it

will be easier to replace only the

edited information. In that case,

you'll want to keep FR$(F)

intact, just as it was retrieved

from the disk.

of information.

If you're editing a subrecord, it will
be easier to replace only the edited in-
formation. In that case, you'll want to
keep FR$(F) intact, just as it was re-
trieved from the disk. You'll also want
to use the MID$ function to replace only
those specific items being changed.

Having defined the string you wish
to store in your disk file, you may use
the following instruction sequence:

F A= 1 : F = 1 . FR(F) = 93 : GOSUB 9500

Defining FA=1 tells the computer
that you wish to store FR$(F) onto
disk. F= 1 specifies which file you are
going to store the information into,
and FR(F) = 93 tells the computer that
the information is to be stored in sub-
record number 93. When Gosub 9500
is executed, the file is opened and
properly fielded, FR$(F) is placed into
subrecord 93 and the file is closed.

Numeric Data

Numeric information is usually
stored on disk in packed form; this al-

Listing 3. Appointments Datebook program using the random access handler routines. TRS-80
(models I and III) listing.

DftTEBDDK F>ROGR«M

UGING RANDOM ACCESS HANDLER ROUTINES

10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100

1 10
120
130
140
150
1B0
170
180
190
200
210
220
230
240
250
260
270

2 30
290
300
310
320
330
340
350
360
370
380
390
400
410
420
430

DAY:

CLEAR 2000

GOSUB9400

DIM A*<6), A<6>,D*<7)

FOR 1=1 TO 7

READ D*«. I)
NEXT I
CLS

INPUT"WHICH MONTH (1-12) OR 0?" ;F
IF F=0 THEN END

IF <F<1 OR F> 12) THEN 70

INPUT"WHICH DAY (. 1-31 ) ?" ;FR<F)

IF <FR(F)<1 OR FR<F>>31> THEN 110

FA=0: GOSUB9500

GOSUB2000

CLS

PR I NT " MONTH : " LEFT* <: F* (. F ) , 3 ) "

PRINTTAB(23)D*<D) : PRINT

F0RI=1T0S
PRINTI;

IF (ACIM.01 OR A»I)>25) THEN PRINT:
PRINTUSING": ##.##"; A< I );: PRINT " ..

NEXTI

PRINT"ENTER NUMBER OF ITEM TO CORRECT OR ADD TO. "

PRINT" CENTER TO QUIT; 7 TO CHANGE DAY. > "

Z*=INKEY»: IF Z*="" THEN 250

Z=VAL(Z*>

IF Z*0 THEN 370

IF <.Z <1 OR Z>7> THEN 150

IF Z=7 THEN GOSUB 2200: GOTO 3E0

PRINT"NEW ITEM: TIME... (USE 24 HR CLOCK;

PRINT" => ";: LINEINPUT A$ :

PRINT" DESCR. . "

PRINT" => ";: LINEINPUTAA*

A* <. Z ) =LEFT* < MKS* ( A ( Z ) ) +AA$+STR I NG* C 2 1 1 32) , 21)

GOSUB 2100

GOTO 150

FR*CF)=""

FOR 1=1 TO 6

FR*<:F)=FR*<F>+A«Kl)

NEXTI

FR* ( F ) =FR* < F ) +RI GHT* ( 8TR*(D> t 1 )

FA=l: GOSUB9500

GOTO 70

"FR< F)

GOTO220

"RIGHT*c A*<:i), 17)

ENTER AS DECIMAL
A ( Z ) =VAL (. A* )

15.45)"

:000 FOR 1=1 TO E

:010 A»<:i)=MID*<FR*<F), 21*1-20, 21)
:020 A<.I)=CVS<MID*<A*< I) , 1,4))
:030 NEXTI

.'040 D=VAL(RIGHT$<FR*<F), 1))
:050 GOSUB2100
•060 RETURN
:100 FOR 1=1 TO 5

:110 IF (ACIX.ei OR At I)) 25 > THEN A<I)=99
.120 FOR J»I«-1 TO 6

!130 IF (ACJ) <. 01ORAC J) ) 25) THEN A<J)=99

ia0 IF ACJ)>=A(I) THEN 2170

:150 A<>=A*=A$
:1&0 A=A«I): A<:i)=A<:J): A«!J) = A

:170 NEXT J
:1S0 NEXTI
:190 RETURN

2200 PRINT"ENTER # FOR DAY OF WEEK
2210 D*=INKEY*: IF D*=" " THEN 2210
2220 IF CD<1 OR D> 7) THEN 2200
2230 RETURN

9400 DEFINT F

9410 READ F

9420 DIM Ft<F>,FR*(F)tFL(F)tFR<F)

9430 FOR 1=1 TO F

9440 READ F* C I ) , FL ( I )

9490 NEXTI

9495 RETURN

9500 0PEN"R", 1,F*<F)

9502 FI=INT«255/FL«F) )

9504 FP=INT( (FR(F)-l >/FI)>l

9506 FS=FR<:F)-FI*CFP-1)-1

9510 FIELD 1, (FL(F)*FS)ASFD*, FL(F)ASFQ*

9520 IF FP)LOF(l) THEN LSETFQ$=STRINGt (FL<'.F) , 32)

9530 GET 1,FP: IF FA=0 THEN FR*<:F)=FQ*: GOTO9550

9540 LSET FQ*=FR*<F): PUT 1 , FP

9550 CLOSE: RETURN

(1-7 FOR SUNDAY-SATURDAY)"
ELSE D=VAL<.D*>)

PUT1, FP

Microcomputing, September 1983 85

Listing 3 continued.

9600

DATA

9610

DATA

9G20

DATA

9630

DATA

9640

DATA

9650

DATA

9660

DATA

9670

DATA

96S0

DATA

9690

DATA

9700

DATA

9710

DATA

9720

DATA

9730

DATA

9740

DATA

"JAN/DAT"
"FEB /DAT"
"MAR/DAT"
"APR/DAT"
"MAY /DAT"
"JUN/DAT"
"JUL /DAT"
"AUG /DAT", 127
"SEP/DAT", 127
"OCT /DAT"
"NOV /DAT"
"DEC/DAT", 127
SUNDAY, MONDAY,

127
127
127
127
127
127
127

127

TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY

lows more information to be stored
within a given amount of disk space.
Numbers that are integers are con-
verted to two-byte strings, numbers
that are single-precision are converted
to four-byte strings, and numbers that
are double-precision are converted to
eight-byte strings. To do this, the func-
tions MKI$, MKS$ and MKD$ are used.
These functions can be used with the
MID$ function described above.

Thus, if you have two numbers to
place into your FR$(F) string for stor-
age to disk, and the first is an integer,

Listing 4. Appointments Datebook program using the random access handler routines. IBM PC
listing. Be sure to load Basic A using the following format: Basic A/S:251.

YOU MUST GO FROM DOS TO BASICA USING

BASICA/S:

0»r

1 00

1 10

120

1 30

14u

150

160

170

180

1 90

200

210

220

230

240

250

260

270

275

280

290

300

3 1

320

330

340

350

360

370
380
390

400

410

420

430

2000

2010

2020

2030

2040

2050

2060

2 1 OO

21 10

2120

2 1 30

2140

2150

2160

2170

2180

2190

2200

2210

2220

2230

9400

94 1

9420

9430

GOSUB 9400

DIM A*( 10) , A( 10) , D*(7)

FOR 1=1 TO 7

READ D*(I)
NEXT I
CLS

INPUT "WHICH MONTH
IF F=0 THEN END

IF (F 1 OR F>12) THEN 70
INPUT "WHICH DAY (1 TO 31)?";

IF (FR(F)<1 OR FR(F)>31) THEN

FA=0: GOSUB 9500
2000

(1 TO 12) OR O TO END'

FR(F)
110

GOSUB

CLS

PRINT "MONTH: " MID*(F*(F> , 3, 3) '

PRINT TAB (23) "DAY "D*(D>: PRINT

FOR 1=1 TO 10
PRINT i-l;

DAY:

"FR(F)

OR A(I)>25) THEN PRINT:
##.##"; A( I) ; :FRINT". .

GOTO 220

"RIGHT*(A*(I) ,21)

OF ITEM TO CORRECT OR ADD
TO QUIT; D TO CHANGE DAY
THEN 250

GOTO 360

TO.
) "

iO
(USE 24 HR CLOCK;
"; : LINE INPUT At

ENTER AS DECIMAL:
A(Z+1)=VAL(A»)

LINE INPUT AA*

IF ( A ( I > < . 1
RRINT USING "
NEXT I

PRINT "ENTER NUMBER
PRINT" (ENTER X
Z*=INKEY»: IF Z*=""
Z=VAL (Z*)

IF Z*="X" THEN 370
IF Z*="D" THEN GOSUB 2200:
IF (Z O OR Z>9) THEN 150
IF (Z=0 AND Z*< "O") THEN

PRINT "NEW ITEM: TIME

PRINT "

PRINT " DESCR..

PRINT "

A* ( Z + l ) =LEF7S (MKS* (A (Z+l > ) +AA*+STR ING* ( 25, 32) , 25)

GOSUB 2100

GOTO 150

FR*(F)=""

FOR 1=1 TO 10

FR*(F)=FR*(F)+A*(I)
NEXT I

FR*(F)=FR*(F) +RIGHT* (STR* (D) , 1)
FA=l: GOSUB 9500
GOTO 70
FOR 1=1 TO 10

At (I)=MID*(FR*(F) ,25»I-24,25)
A ( I ) =C VS ( M I D% ( A* ( I ) , 1 , 4 ) )
NEXT I

D=VAL (RIGHT* (FR»(F) , 1) )
GOSUB 2100
RETURN
FOR 1=1 TO 9

IF ( A ( I X . 1 OR A ( I ) -25 ) THEN A ( I ) =99
FOR J-I+l TO 10
IF (A(J):.01 OR A(J)25) THEN A (J) =99
IF A (J) >A(I) THEN 2170
A*=A» ( I ) : A*(I)=A*(J): A*(J)=A*
A=A(I): A(I)=A(J>: A(J)=A
NEXT J
NEXT I
RETURN

PRINT "ENTER # FOR DAY OF WEEK (1-7 FOR SUNDAY-SATURDAY)
D*=INKEY*: IF D*="" THEN 2210 ELSE D=VAL(D*>
IF (IX 1 OR D 7) THEN 2200
RETURN
DEFINT F
READ F

15.45) "

DIM
FOR

F*(F) ,
1 = 1 TO

FR*(F), FL(F), FR(F)

In order to see how

the program works, fill

information into several

dates, remembering the dates

as you go along. Then

call up the dates again to

verify that the information

originally entered indeed

has been stored to disk.

11%, while the second is a double-pre-
cision number represented by AM#,
then the following instructions should
be used (assuming the rest of FR$(F) is
ready to be saved to disk):

MID$(FR$(F),42,2) = MKI$(II%)

MID$(FR$(F),44,8) = MKD$(AM#)

FA = 1: F = 1: FR(F) = 29: GOSUB 9500

Note that the byte count used in the
MID$ function is 2 for the integer and
8 for the double-precision value. This
will always be the case.

A similar situation is encountered
when information is retrieved from
disk. Numbers that have been saved
in packed form must be converted
from the packed strings to numeric
before they can be used. For this pur-
pose, three functions, CVI, CVS and
CVD, have been provided.

Suppose FR$(F) is to be retrieved
from subrecord 29 of file 1, and that
the last ten bytes of FR$(F) contain an
integer and a double-precision value
stored in packed form. The following
instructions will retrieve the appropri-
ate subrecord and convert the num-
bers into numeric data:

86 Microcomputing, September 1983

FA = 0: F=l: FR(F) = 29: GOSUB 9500
II% = CVI(MID$(FR$(F),42 ( 2))
AM# = CVD(MID$(FR$(F),44,8))

Notice the similarity between the
MID$ functions used to place data in-
to the FR$(F) string and the MID$
functions used to retrieve information
from the FR$(F) string. When setting
up the subroutines to load information
into FR$(F) and to retrieve informa-
tion from FR$(F), follow the mirror-
image symmetry that relates the two
sets of instructions.

Sample Program Using
Random Access Disk Files

Listing 3 provides a simple but use-
ful program for the TRS-80; it serves
as an example for using the random ac-
cess subroutines presented in Listing 1.
(Listing 4 provides the same program,
modified for use with the IBM PC.)

Listing 3 uses random access disk
storage to set up a 366-day appoint-
ment datebook. Lines 9400-9550 are
exactly the same as the lines in Listing 1,
and will remain the same in all pro-
grams you write that use this technique.

The program uses 12 random access
disk files (refer to the data statements
in lines 9600-9640)— one for each
month. Each file will contain 127-byte
subrecords that have three data fields.
These subrecords represent the in-
dividual days within the month.

When running the program, you'll
be prompted to enter first a number
from 1-12 to specify which file
(month) you want to work with, then
a number for the date that specifies
the subrecord number to be accessed.
The display then will show the indi-
vidual data items currently read from
the disk for that subrecord. (This will
be blank information to begin with
until you actually have saved data on-
to the disk.) You may either keep the
current information by pressing the
zero key, or change the information
by pressing a numeral key between 1
and 7 and typing in the new data to
correspond to that item number.

The new data subsequently will be
displayed in that field and you'll be al-
lowed to make additional changes to
that subrecord. The computer stores
the new information onto disk in the
appropriate file and subrecord as soon
as the zero key is pressed; it prompts
you again for a new month and day to
work with. To end the program, enter
a zero for the month.

In order to see how the program
works, fill information into several
dates, remembering the dates as you
go along. Then call up the dates again to

Listing 4 continued.

9440

READ F*(I)

9490

9495

RETURN

9500

OPEN

"R", 1,F*(F> ,251

9510

FIELD 1, 251 AS FQ»

9520

GET 1

,FR(F):IF LEN(FQ»)=0 THEN FQ*=STRING* (251 , 32) :

PUT 1

, FR(F)

9530

GET J

,FR(F): IF FA«=0 THEN FR*(F)=FQ*: GOTO 9550

9540

LSET

FQS=FR*(F>: PUT 1, FR(F>

9550

CLOSE: RETURN

9600

DATA

9610

DATA

"B: JAN. DAT"

9620

DATA

"B: FEB. DAT"

9630

DATA

"B: MAR. DAT"

9640

DATA

"B: APR. DAT"

9650

DATA

"B: MAY. DAT"

9660

DATA

"B: JUN.DAT"

9670

DATA

"B: JUL. DAT"

9680

DATA

"B: AUG. DAT"

9690

DATA

"B: SEP. DAT"

9700

DATA

"B:0CT.DAT"

9710

DATA

"B: NOV. DAT"

9720

DATA

"B: DEC. DAT"

9730

DATA

SUNDAY, MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY

9740

DATA

THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY

Should a system crash occur
with a disk file open (or should
someone accidentally remove a

disk while a file is open), you

could lose an entire file. With

the technique presented in this

article, a file is opened, read,

written to and closed in one
rapid operation . . .

verify that the information originally
entered indeed has been stored to disk.

Alternatively, you may wish to re-
turn to DOS mode and list each of the
data files (do not use quotation marks
around the file names in DOS mode).
You'll be able to see each of the sub-
records as they were entered (except
for the weird symbols used to repre-
sent the packed numbers), and you'll
see garbage still on the disk for unused
subrecords. Once you've entered data
onto the disk, you may wish to call up
a date you previously entered and
change some of the data in that date.
Then verify that the edited informa-
tion has been saved to disk.

The IBM PC version is set up in
much the same fashion. Since double-
density disks are standard with the
IBM, more storage space is available,
making it possible to use 21 bytes for
each appointment description instead
of 17, and to allow up to ten appoint-
ments to be entered for each date.

Technical Information

Lines 9400-9495 handle the initial
reading of the data statements into the
program. The number of files you are
using is denoted by F. This is the first
data element to be read by the com-
puter, and the value of F is used to di-
mension the variables used by the ran-
dom access handling routine.

When the 9500-9550 routine is call-
ed from within the program, the value
of F must be specified to determine
the subscript value for the array vari-
ables. A value of 1 for F specifies that
the file being called will be the first
file listed in the data lists; F = 2 calls
the second file listed, and so on. (In
this program, each file represents a
month, so the value of F is input into
the program when the user specifies
the month he wishes to work with.)

The 9400-9495 subroutine then sets
up a loop that reads each file name in
succession, along with the number of
bytes per subrecord for that file. The
file names are stored as F$(F) and the
byte counts are stored as FL(F).

Lines 9500-9550 handle the I/O for
random access disk files. Since each
call to 9500 both opens and closes the
file, there is no need to worry about
more than one buffer or channel.

Although disk Basic allows several
buffers to be active at once, it is
questionable as to whether this prac-
tice is a particularly good one; a disk
file should be left open for only the
shortest possible time.

Should a system crash occur with a
disk file open (or should someone ac-
cidentally remove a disk while a file is
open), you could lose an entire file.
With the technique presented in this
article, a file is opened, read, written
to and closed in one rapid operation;

Microcomputing, September 1983 87

thus, only one buffer field need be
specified by the program. The data el-
ements are transferred out of the buf-
fer field FQ$ and into FR$(F) before a
return is made to the main program.

Calculations

Lines 9502-9506 use the byte count,
FL(F), to calculate FI, the number of
subrecords allowed per 255-byte disk
record. Then, using the value of FR(F),
the subrecord number, which was
specified by the program before sub-
routine 9500 was called, the actual
disk record that contains this subre-
cord is calculated (FP).

Finally, the subrecord location
within the record (counting from zero)
is calculated and saved under FS.
With FS and FL(F), you next field the
buffer in line 9510 and associate FD$
with the preceding subrecords, in
which you have no interest, and FQ$
with the desired subrecord. These ma-
nipulations are not necessary with the
IBM PC; FR(F) may be used directly
with get and put statements.

Now you must get the physical rec-
ord, FP, from the disk. If you attempt
to get a record, test to be sure the
record exists in line 9520. If it does
not, simply put a dummy record
there. In line 9530 you get the record.
In order to preserve the information in
the desired subrecord should you
make subsequent subroutine calls for
different files, set FR$(F) equal to
FQ$. Next, close the file and return if
the value of FA is zero. You must spec-
ify in the program, prior to the subrou-
tine call, whether FA is to be or 1.

If all you wish to do is retrieve a rec-
ord, then FA = (see line 130). If you
wish to put a record onto disk, then
specify FA= 1 (refer to line 420). The
instructions in line 9540 are carried
out only if FA<>0. These instructions
set FQ$ equal to FR$(F), and put FQ$
into disk record FP. Recall that you
must build the FR$(F) string in the
main program before doing the Gosub
9500 call. In the sample program, this
process is done in lines 370-410.

The subroutine at lines 2000-2060
takes FR$(F), which has just been re-
trieved from disk, and breaks it down
into the individual data elements. As
set up, each subrecord consists of six
appointments, in which the first four
bytes correspond to the appointment
time (in packed, single-precision
form), and the next 17 bytes corre-
spond to the description.

Since the appointment time is treat-
ed as a decimal number, times should
be entered using a decimal point

88 Microcomputing, September 1983

rather than the more common colon.
Thus, 9:45 a.m. is entered as 9.45, and
3:30 p.m. as 15.30.

The last byte in each subrecord is a
one-byte string between 1 and 7 that
corresponds to the day of the week for
that particular date. When unpacked,
A(I) contains the appointment time,
A$(I) contains the description and D
specifies the day.

The subroutine at lines 2100-2190
corresponds to a simple bubble sort
for the individual appointments en-
tered for a given date. The sort is car-
ried out according to the appointment
times, so a 24-hour clock must be used
to list them in correct order.

Incidentally, any nonappointment
entries, such as birthdays or anniver-
saries, still must be given a time in
order for them to appear on the calen-
dar. Both 25.00 and 0.01 will serve
this purpose.

An added advantage is that a

simple program can be written

to make disk I/O routines and

variables self-documenting. Next

month, Til describe these further

enhancements of random access

disk I/O.

This program will allow 366 days to
be set up on a single-density disk that
contains both Basic and the Datebook
program. It does limit the number of
entries per day to six, and limits the
description for each appointment to
17 characters.

A double-density disk could allow
each date to use a full 255-byte record.
This would allow more entries per
date, or longer descriptions, or both.

The handler routines would be un-
affected by this change; only the byte
counts in the data statements would
be altered.

Program Dimensions

Within the program itself, the di-
mension statement at line 30 would
have to be changed, and the For . . .
Next limits at lines 180, 380, 2000,
2100 and 2120 would need changing.
If the string length for appointment

descriptions is lengthened, then the
string function limits in lines 210, 320,
340 and 2010 must be changed.

It is important, however, to keep the
first four bytes in each appointment
entry reserved for the appointment
time, and to keep the last byte in your
date subrecord reserved for the day-
of -the- week indicator.

Finally, the values allowed for Z in
lines 240, 280 and 290 must be revised
to allow for a larger number of entries.
These changes are shown in the IBM
PC program in Listing 4.

One further alteration will allow an
additional two bytes for each appoint-
ment description. The appointment
times (entered as decimal numbers)
become integers and, if multiplied by
100, can be saved to disk in only two
bytes instead of four, using the MKI$
function. When retrieving the data
from the disk, the CVI function can be
used in line 2020, and A(I) can be di-
vided by 100 to restore it to its origi-
nally entered value.

This program is unusual in that all
12 data files have the same format.
When the files are formatted to handle
different types of information, the
routines that extract individual data
items from FR$(F), and that build up
FR$(F) prior to saving the subrecord to
disk, can be called using ON F Gosub,
sending the program to different sub-
routines based on the specific value of
F in use at that time.

This instruction would appear just
after Gosub 9500 when information is
being retrieved from disk, and just
before Gosub 9500 when information
is being prepared to be stored to disk.
In this way, each file would have its
own unique packing and unpacking
subroutines for FR$(F).

Conclusion

As is evident from the above exam-
ple, with the random access handler
routine presented in this article a great
variety of random access files can be
manipulated with little concern about
the actual I/O instructions involved. It
turns out that with careful use of ar-
rays, even the MID$ functions de-
scribed in this article can be simplified
into "cookbook" routines so we
needn't worry about them.

An added advantage to this further
step is that a simple program can be
written to make disk I/O routines
and variables self-documenting. Next
month, I'll describe these further en-
hancements of random access disk
I/O. You may find that your approach
to disk files will never be the same!H

Circle 49 on Reader Service card.

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1955 Pauline Blvd., Suite 200 ° Ann Arbor, Michigan 48103 ° (313) 996-1299

Buyer's Guide

•

To$

>1000-$2500 Syst

Today's microcomputer market is flooded
with a seemingly endless stream of systems —

:em

varying in memory, disk drive capacity, screen
display size. . ., but which one should you
buy? Microcomputing can help you decide.
This month voe continue our buyer's guide
series focusing on systems in the $1000 to
$2500 range. It breaks each micro down into

11 categories, so you can compare the capa-
bilities most important to you. Next month,
Microcomputing wi/Z cover systems in the
$2500 to $4000 range.

Manufacturer
Name/ Address

Model

Dimensions
(in inches)

Weight

Price

Micro-
processor

Bit
Configuration

Access Matrix Corp.
1259 Bering Drive
San Jose, CA 95131

Access

16.5x10x10.8

33 lbs.

$2495

Z-80A

8-bit

Apple Computer, Inc.
20525 Mariani Ave.
Cupertino, CA 95014

Apple II Plus

4.5x15.5

11 lbs.

1330

6502

8-bit

Apple He

4.5x15.13x18

12 lbs.

1395

6502A

8-bit

Billings Computer Corp.
18600 E. 37th Terrace S.
Independence, MO 64057

Series 6000

16x20

45 lbs.

2025

Z-80A

8-bit

Colonial Data
105 Sanford St.
Hamden, CT 06514

SB-80, SB-80/4

22x19

39 lbs.

1600

Z-80

8-bit

Commodore Business Machines
1200 Wilson Drive
West Chester, PA 19380

CBM 9000 Superpet

24x21x19

53 lbs.

1995

6502/6809

8-bit

CBM 8032

24x20x20

48 lbs.

1495

6502

8-bit

PET 4032

24x21x20

47 lbs.

1295

6502

8-bit

Compal

8500 Wilshire Blvd.

Beverly Hills, CA 90211

Electric Briefcase

9x20x15

26 lbs.

1995

Z-80A

8-bit

Corona

31324 Via Colinas

Westlake Village, CA 91361

Corona Portable

8x20x20

28 lbs.

2395

8088

16-bit

Compiled by Michele Christian

90 Microcomputing, September

1 983

Stuff

StQfkings

t}lf*tf~* YES, I'd like to give a year of
WIW MICROCOMPUTING for Christmas

(12 issues/$24.97).

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_Zip

Please enter a one year gift subscription to:

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Address

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Foreign Airmail please inqui

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Canada fit Mexico $27.97, 1 year only. U.S. funds drawn on
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639B7B

MICROCOMPUTING

•fO Box WT-FarniinudaW. M 11717

All

Christmas gift subscriptions will begin with the Jan. 1984 ismh-.

BUSINESS REPLY CARD

FIRST CLASS PERMIT NO. 73 PETERBOROUGH. NH 03458

Wayne Green Inc.

MICROCOMPUTING

PO Box 997
Farmingdale, NY 11737

NO POSTAGE
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in nn

UNITED STATES

Commodore's CBM 8032 is expandable to 96K.-*

iThe Corona 16-bit IBM PC-compatible micro.

t i r i 11 i (i i « <
t" t' t" f' f ' t" f' f '. f * 1
I" i" t t t' t J » t I

rttfffttfvi

Memory
Capacity

64KRAM

Two 4K EPROMS

48-64K RAM
12K ROM

64-128K RAM
16K ROM

Disk Drive
Capacity Size

184K

5 l A'

143K

Operating
System

CP/M 2.2

Apple DOS

140K

5 l A

64-576K RAM

64-320K RAM

96KRAM

32KRAM
16K ROM

720K

5V4 '

2.4M

Apple DOS

Proprietary

CP/M 2.2

175-1000K 5%"

175-1000K SVa

64KRAM
4KROM

128-512KRAM

400K

5V4

Proprietary

CP/M

320K

MS-DOS

N/A = Not available

Hard
Disk

5V4"

N/A

5Va" or 8"

80M

5-7.5M

10M

5Va"

10M

Screen
Display

80x24

80x40

80x24

80x25

40x25

80x24

Color

9" built-in
monitor

Interface

RS-232;
Parallel

RS-232-opt;
Parallel-opt.

Parallel;
RS-232-opt.

RS-232;
Parallel

RS-232;
Parallel-opt.

RS-232;
Parallel

Microcomputing, September 1983 91

Manufacturer
Name/ Address

Model

Dimensions
(in inches)

Weight

Price

Micro-
processor

Bit
Configuration

Cromemco, Inc.
280 Bernardo Ave.
Mt. View, CA 94039

C-10SP

Personal Computer

Keyboard-2 x 1 3.88 x 7.8
CPU-3.38x 5.78x8

25.5 lbs.

1785

Z-80A

8-bit

Eagle Computer, Inc.
983 University Ave.
Los Gatos, CA 95030

HE Series
PC Series

18x21x13.5

Keyboard— 19 x 1.7x8.7
CPU-20.5x5.7xl3

49 lbs.
25 lbs.

1595
1995

Z-80A
8088

8-bit
16-bit

ECS Microsystems
215 Devon Drive
San Jose, CA 951 12

ECS Work Station

11.44x20x17.13

37.5 lbs.

2450

Z-80A

8-bit

Epic Computer Products
18381 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708

Episode 2296

7.5x9.5x14.5

17 lbs.

2100

Z-80A

8-bit

Epson

3415KashiwaSt.
Torrance, CA 90505

QX-10

Keyboard— 20 x 8.9 x 1 .9
CPU-20.3x 13.6x4.1

38.2 lbs.

2495

Z-80A

8-bit

Franklin Computer Corp.
7030 Colonial Way
Pennsauken, NJ 08109

ACE 1000
ACE 1200

17.75x4.5x19.75
17.75x8x19.75

15 lbs.
22.25 lbs.

1530
2495

6502
6502

8-bit
8-bit

Heath Co.

Benton Harbor, MI 49022

H89

13x17x20

50 lbs.

1399

Z-80

8-bit

Hewlett-Packard

1820 Embarcadero Road

Palo Alto, CA 94303

Model 87XM

7.7x16.5x17.8

21.5 lbs.

1795

NMOS

8-bit

IBM Information Systems
Boca Raton, FL 33432

IBM PC

19x15x4

27 lbs.

1595

8088

16-bit

Intertec Data Systems
2300 Broad River Road
Columbia, SC 29210

Superbrain
CompuStar

14.63x21.38x23.13
14.63x21.38x23.13

45 lbs.
45 lbs.

2495
1995

Z-80A
Z-80A

8-bit
8-bit

ITSC

2 Kingston Road
Staines, Middlesex
TW18 4PA England

Zita

20.4x17.4x8.2

29 lbs.

1800

Z-80A

8-bit

92 Microcomputing, September 1983

"-Pictured from left to right are the Kaypro, the
Epson QX-10 and Cromemco's C10SP.

Hewlett-Packard's 87XM (left) and the Franklin
ACE 1200. —

Memory
Capacity

64KRAM
24K ROM

64KRAM
4K EPROM

64-512K RAM
8KROM

16-208K RAM
12K ROM

64KRAM

64-256K RAM
2-8K ROM

64KRAM
12K ROM

48-64K RAM
8KROM

128-640K RAM
48-96K ROM

16-256K RAM
40K ROM

64KRAM

64-512K RAM
5KROM

Disk Drive
Capacity Size

390K

5 l A"

390-780K

5 l A"

320K

5 l A"

1000K

5 l A"

Operating
System

CDOS

CP/M-80

MS-DOS, CP/M-86

1.6M

5 l A"

320K

5 l A"

143Keach drive 5 l A"

143K each drive 5 l A"

100K

5»/4

270K-1.1M

5 ! /4"

360K

5 l A"

Uptol.5M 5 l A'

350K-1.5M

5 l A"

125K

5Va"

CP/M

CP/M, TP/M

Apple DOS 3.3 or 3.2

CP/M

MS-DOS, CP/M-86
UCSD p- System

CP/M

N/A = Not available

Hard
Disk

N/A

10-32M
5V4"

10-32M
5*4"

5 l /4"

N/A

Available

10M

5-10M

5-12M

Screen
Display

80x25

Color

80x25

N/A

80x24

40x24

80x24

80x25

80x24

80x25

N/A

Interface

RS-232;
Parallel

RS-232;
Parallel-opt.

RS^232;
Parallel

RS-232;
Parallel

RS-232-opt.

RS-232;
Parallel

N/A

RS-232

RS232

RS-232;
Parallel-opt.

Microcomputing, September 1983 93

Manufacturer
Name/ Address

Model

Dimensions
(in inches)

Weight

Price

Micro-
processor

Bit
Configuration

Jonos, Ltd.

920-C E. Orangethorpe

Anaheim, CA 92801

C1100
Escort

7.25x17.25x13.25
7.25x17.25x13.25

25 lbs.
25 lbs.

1995
2495

Z-80A
Z-80A

8-bit;
16-bit opt.

8-bit 1

LNW Computers
2620 Walnut
Tustin, CA 92680

80 II

3.5x16.5

26 lbs.

1995

Z-80A

8-bit

Magic Computer Co., Inc.
Two Executive Drive
Fort Lee, NJ 07024

PBC-88/2

6.25x19x15

23 lbs.

2295

Z-80A/6502

2 x 8-bit

Modular Computer Systems
1650 W. McNab Road
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33310

Zorba

9x17.5x16

22 lbs.

1995

Z-80 A/8088

8-bit 1

Morrow Designs, Inc.
600 McCormick St.
San Leandro, CA 94577

Micro Decision

5.2x6.7

14.2 lbs.

1195

Z-80A

8-bit

Multitech Electronics, Inc.
195 West El Camino Real
Sunnyvale, CA 94086

MIC-500

15.3x6x5.3

15.4 lbs.

1395

Z-80A

8-bit 1

Non-Linear Systems
533 Stevens Ave.
Solana Beach, CA 92075

Kaypro II

14x17x18

26 lbs.

1795

Z-80

8-bit 1

Osborne Computer Corp.
26538 Danti Court
Hayward, CA 94545

Osborne I

8.5x20.5x14.5

26.2 lbs.

1795

Z-80A

8-bit

Personal Microcomputers

475 Ellis St.

Mountain View, CA 94043

PMC- 101
Micro Mate

3.5x6x 15

8.5 lbs.

1095

Z-80

8-bit

Quay Corp.

22 Meridian Road, Box 783

Eatontown, NJ 07724

#500
#520

6.8x16.2x18.1
6.8x16.2x18.1

40 lbs.
40 lbs.

1995
2395

Z-80A
Z-80A

8-bit 1

Sanyo Business Systems
51 Joseph St.
Moonachie, NJ 07074

MBC 1000
MBC 1200/1250

16.13x12.63x14
16x13.14x14.43

50 lbs.
50 lbs.

1995
2495

Z-80A
Z-80A

8-bit 1
8-bit 1

Seequa Computer Corp.
209 West St.
Annapolis, MD 21401

Chameleon

8x18x15

28 lbs.

1995

8088/Z-80A

8/16-bit 1

Sharp Electronics Corp.
10 Sharp Plaza
Paramus, NJ 07652

Sharp PC-5000

12.75x12x3.5

1 1 lbs.

2495

8088

16-bit 1

SKS Computers, Inc.
4091 Leap Road
Hilliard, OH 43026

SKS 2502 NANO

15.63x10.13x6.5

26 lbs

2495

Z-80A

8-bit; 16-bit opt.

94 Microcomputing, September 1983

Memory
Capacity

Disk Drive
Capacity Size

Operating
System

Hard
Disk

Screen
Display

Color

Interface

64-128K RAM
2-8K ROM

64KRAM
8K ROM

1M 5V4"
322K 2 l /z"

CP/M Plus
CP/M

3.9" cartridge

5M
3.9"

80x25
80x25

N
N

RS-232;
Parallel-opt.

96K RAM
12K ROM

3.55M 5»/4"or8"

DOS Plus 3.4
CP/M 2.2

80M

5>/4"

80x24

RS-232;
Parallel

64KRAM
7K ROM

400K 5Va"

CP/M 2.2

10M

5>/4"

80x24

RS-232;
Parallel

64-320K RAM
16K ROM

400-800K 5 l A"

CP/M

N/A

80x25

RS-232;
Parallel-opt.

64KRAM
2K EPROM

400K SW

CP/M 2.2

N/A

80x25

RS-232

64KRAM
4K ROM

400K 5 l A"

CP/M

N/A

80x40

RS-232;
Parallel

64KRAM
4K ROM

195K SW

CP/M

N/A

80x24

RS-232;
Parallel

64KRAM
4K ROM

204K 5 l /4"

CP/M

N/A

52x24

RS-232;
Parallel

128K RAM
4KROM

400K 5»/4"

CP/M Plus

Available
4th Qtr. 10M

80x24

RS232;
Parallel

1 64-128K RAM
32K ROM

64-128K RAM
32K ROM

200K 5 l /4"
400K each drive 5 l A"

CP/M or MP/M
CP/M or MP/M

5-20M

5-20M
8"

80x24
80x24

N
N

RS-232;
Parallel

64K RAM
4K ROM

1 64KRAM
1 4K ROM

327K 5 l /4"
640K 5V*"

CP/M
CP/M

5-20M
5-20M

80x25
80x40

N
N

RS-232;
Parallel

RS232;
Parallel

1 128-256K RAM
1 48K ROM

Dual 160K SW

MS-DOS; CP/M-86;
CP/M-80

10M

80x25

RS-232;
Parallel

1 128-256K RAM
1 192K ROM

640K 5*4"

MS-DOS

N/A

80x8 LCD

RS-232

I 80-256K RAM
1 2K ROM

400K SV*"

CP/M

5M
SW

80x24

RS-232;
Parallel-opt.

N/A = Not available

Microcomputing, September 1983 95

Manufacturer
Name/ Address

Sony Corp. of America

Sony Drive

Park Ridge, NJ 07656

STM Corp.

525 Middlefield Road

Menlo Park, CA 94025

Televideo Systems
1 170 Morse Ave.
Sunnyvale, CA 94086

Model

SMC-70

Dimensions
(in inches)

Pied Piper

TS-800A

TS-803

N/A

4x20.2x10.8

14.25x 16.5x 14

14.5x 18. 5x 14

Weight

N/A

4.5 lbs.

34.5 lbs.

65 lbs.

Price

1470

1299

1395

2495

Micro-
processor

Z-80A

Bit
Configuration

8/16-bit

8-bit

Texas Instruments
PO Box 402430
Dallas, TX 75240

TI Professional
Computer

Keyboard-20x 7.9x1.4
CPU-18.9x 15.5x5

34 lbs.

2195

8088

16-bit

Toshiba America, Inc.
2441 Michelle Drive
Tustin, CA 92680

T-100 Portable

21x13x5

24 lbs.

1590

Z-80A

8-bit

T100 PC

16.5x4x 11

N/A

1995

Z-80A

8-bit

T300

Keyboard- 19. 7x1.6x9.3
CPU-16.5x5.5xl6.5

N/A

2495

8088

16-bit

Zenith Data Systems
450 Milwaukee Ave.
Glenview, IL 60025

Z-89

13x17

50 lbs.

1999

Z-80

8-bit

Z-90

13x17

50 lbs.

2499

Z-80

8-bit

Cir cle 365 on Reader Service card.

HAVING LOADING

PROBLEMS ?

■Mtwaiain

mmmmm

GET A Z-DUBBER

ZX80 81 TSI000 (some in very | |

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96 Microcomputing, September 1983

Memory
Capacity

64-768K RAM
32K ROM

64-256K RAM
4K ROM

64KRAM
4K EPROM

64-128KRAM
8K EPROM

64-256K RAM
8-16K ROM

Disk Drive
Capacity Size

280K

3 l / 2 "

256K

5>/4"

N/A

500K

5Va"

320K

5 l A"

Operating
System

CP/M

Hard
Disk

Available

5-10M

Screen
Display

320 x 200

2 Line LCD
Display

N/A

CP/M

MS-DOS; CP/M-86;
Concurrent CP/M-86;
UCSD p-System

N/A

5-10M
5Vft"

80x24

80x25

Color

Interface

RS-232

Parallel;
RS-232-opt

RS-232

RS-232-opt

64KRAM
32K ROM

64KRAM
32 K ROM

192-512K RAM
4KROM

280K

5 l A"

CP/M

N/A

40-column LCD

280K

5V4"

CP/M

N/A

80x25

640K

5V4"

MS-DOS,
CP/M-86, opt.

N/A

640x400

RS-232;
Parallel-opt.

RS232;
Parallel

RS-232;
Parallel

48-64K RAM
4KROM

64KRAM
4KROM

11M

5 l A"

HDOS; CP/M

11M

HDOS; CP/M

11M
8"

11M

80x24

80x25

RS232;
Parallel-opt.

N/A = Not available

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Microcomputing, September 1983 97

Micro Software Digest presents capsulized software reviews from various computer-related publications.

Ozmosis

System Requirements: Osborne and another CP/M-based com-
puter; CP/M; 64K RAM; two disk drives

Manufacturer: Acquis Data, Inc., 17192 Gillette, Irvine, CA
92714
Price: $150

Comments: "Ozmosis," says the review, "is a data-communica-
tions program designed to transfer files to or from an Osborne 1
computer and a standard CP/M computer."

A user familiar with CP/M should have no trouble getting the
program to run, states the review, concluding that "Ozmosis will
do the job it is intended for. It is easy to use, once installed. It is,
however, slow compared to other programs that do the same
task." Reader Service number 401

(Reviewed in InfoWorld, April 11, 1983}

$PLOT

System Requirements: IBM PC; PC-DOS and disk Basic; 64K
RAM; one disk drive; unmodified Epson (or IBM) MX-80 printer
Manufacturer: Redox Software, PO Box 8, Yorktown Heights,
NY 10598
Price: $14.95

Comments: $PLOT, according to the review, "is a collection of
well-written, low-resolution graphics programs. . . intended for [a
programmer's] use with other software or incorporation into other
programs."

The review cautions that the user should be familiar with the
IBM PC and possess moderate programming knowledge to employ
the program The documentation is good, and, concludes the
review, "For the $ 14.95 price, this package is astonishingly under-
priced." Reader Service number 402

(Reviewed in InfoWorld, April 4, 1983J

Taxmode

System Requirements: Apple II Plus or Apple III with emulator;
DOS 3.3; 48K RAM; SVi-inch floppy disk drive
Manufacturer: Sawhney Software, 888 7th Ave., New York, NY
10106

Price: $250

Comments: Taxmode, states the review, "is a professional tax-
planning program, and you must be familiar with federal tax law to
use it effectively." The innovative screen layout makes for ex-
ceptionally efficient and easy use, according to the review.

The manual is "readable and easy to follow," says the review,
and "provides a good primer for tax planners who are new to com-
puters." Once you have reviewed the manual and booted the disk,
"you merely follow the on-screen instructions," says the review.
Reader Service number 403

(Reviewed in InfoWorld, March 21, 1983)

The Word Plus

System Requirements: IBM PC; DOS 2.0; 64K RAM; preferably
two disk drives

Manufacturer: Oasis Systems, 2765 Reynard Way, San Diego,
C A 92103
Price: $150

Comments: The Word Plus is a spelling checker, according to the
review, that is preconfigured for WordStar. It has excellent docu-
mentation and many options, including total word count and
count of word frequency.

The review says that the program's "on-screen menu permits
viewing each word in context; you can then correct it, add it to the
[45,000-word] dictionary, mark it in the file or ignore it." An auxil-
iary dictionary may also be created for proper names or technical
terms. Reader Service number 419

(Reviewed in Softalk for the IBM Personal Computer, May 1983)

PCcrayon

System Requirements: IBM PC; DOS 2.0; 64K RAM; at least one
disk drive; compatible printer

Manufacturer: PCsoftware, 4155 Cleveland Ave., San Diego, CA
92103

Price: $44.95

Comments: "This well-designed program" says the review, "can
draw and store virtually any graphics shape or character font.
Arcs, circles, straight lines or dots are easily combined with key-
board-entered text or specially created characters to form a seem-
ingly endless variety of graphics images."

Although slow to dump a graphics drawing, states the review,
the program "gets high marks for user-friendliness, with good
use of prompts and effective error-trapping." Reader Service num-
ber 420

(Reviewed in Softalk for the IBM Personal Computer, May 1983)

Plan 1040

System Requirements: IBM PC; DOS 1.1; 64K RAM; one disk
drive; IBM, Epson or compatible printer

Manufacturer: Software 1040, Division of Prentice-Hall Co., PO
Box 1010, New Hyde Park, NY 11042
Price: $150

Comments: Plan 1040 is a program that figures alternatives in in-
come tax preparation. The current version is set for the 1983 tax
year, says the review, and it "is a superior piece of software that
authors at home in the microcomputer world could learn from."
"As a piece of programming art," states the review, "Plan 1040
is rivaled so far only by 1-2-3. . . If Plan 1040 sets a performance
standard, PC owners will have much to look forward to." Reader
Service number 42 1

(Reviewed in Softalk for the IBM Personal Computer, May 1983)

98 Microcomputing, September 1983

The Composer's Assistant

System Requirements: Apple II or II Plus; 48K RAM; ROM Ap-
plesoft; at least one disk drive; alphaSyntauri keyboard and soft-
ware; dot-matrix printer with graphics capability
Manufacturer: Syntauri Corp., 3506 Waverly St., Palo Alto, CA
94306
Price: $295

Comments: "This software package," states the review, "enables
music keyboard performances played on the alphaSyntauri com-
puter music system to be printed out as conventionally notated, hi-
res scores."

"It transcribes accurately executed keyboard performances,"
concludes the review, "and spotlights exactly what is wrong with
less-than-perfect playing. As such, The Composer's Assistant is a
powerful addition to the alphaSyntauri' s extensive musical reper-
toire." Reader Service number 418

(Reviewed in Softalk, May 1983)

The Printographer

System Requirements: Apple II; 48K RAM; ROM Applesoft; one
disk drive; almost any printer with graphics capability
Manufacturer: Southwestern Data Systems, PO Box 582, Santee,
CA 92071
Price: $49.95

Comments: "The Printographer," says the review, "is a utility
program which processes high-resolution images on the Apple II
computer and sends them to a printer." According to the review,
most of the program is easy to use and it comes with clear and com-
plete documentation.

"Its strongest feature," concludes the review, "is the manner in
which it can easily be configured to work with whichever graphics
printer you happen to have." Reader Service number 413

(Reviewed in COMPUTE!, June 1983}

High Rise

System Requirements: Apple II or II Plus; 48K RAM; ROM Ap-
plesoft; one disk drive

Manufacturer: Micro Fun/Micro Lab, 2310 Skokie Valley Road,
Highland Park, IL 60035
Price: $39.95

Comments: The object of High Rise, according to the review, is to
build a tower of odd-shaped boxes, climb it without it toppling
over, and thus reach the next level of difficulty.

"Determining," says the review, "how to put the pieces together
in such a way that the structure is stable stretches the ingenuity of
the player. . . . People who enjoy solving challenging puzzles will
find excitement and delight in each new level." Reader Service
number 417

(Reviewed in Softalk, May 1983)

ASCII Express

System Requirements: Apple II, II Plus or lie; Apple DOS; 48K
RAM; one disk drive; a minimum of one serial interface card
Manufacturer: Southwestern Data Systems, PO Box 582, Santee,
CA 92071
Price: $129.95

Comments: According to the review, ASCII Express converts
your Apple II into a terminal capable of communicating with a
local or remote large computer or with another microcomputer.
Information can come from your keyboard or from a disk file.

Despite poor documentation, the review recommends the pro-
gram highly and concludes that "The price is higher than that of
alternative communications packages, but the ASCII Express's
versatility and ease of use make the price worthwhile." Reader
Service number 406

(Reviewed in InfoWorld, April 4, 1983)

Old Ironsides

System Requirements: Apple II or II Plus; 48K RAM; ROM Ap-
plesoft; one disk drive

Manufacturer: Xerox Education Publications, 245 Long Hill
Road, Middletown, CT 06058
Price: $39.95

Comments: Old Ironsides, according to the review, is a sea-battle
game that may be played by two people or one person against the
computer. "The arena," says the review, "is a square area of sea
upon which the wonderfully drawn hi-res ships do battle."

Fog and the difficulty of turning the big ships contribute to the
excitement. "While Old Ironsides has a certain arcade feel to its
play," concludes the review, "it's basically a game of skill and
strategy." Reader Service number 414

(Reviewed in Softalk, May 1983)

TeleTari

System Requirements: Atari computer with Basic; 32K RAM;
disk drive, modem and printer

Manufacturer: Don't Ask Software, 2265 Westwood Blvd., Suite
B-150, Los Angeles, CA 90064
Price: $39.95

Comments: The review calls TeleTari "a highly adaptable com-
munications package. It's advertised as The Friendly Terminal,'
an appropriate term." According to the review, this is the first
Atari terminal program to support the Bit 3, 80-column board.

With arrow-key paging of the buffer contents, a speedy Print op-
tion and excellent documentation on transferring files, this pro-
gram, concludes the review, can give you "a whale of a time with
your Atari." Reader Service number 411

(Reviewed in ANTIC, May 1983)

Hellcat Ace

System Requirements: Atari computer; Atari Basic cartridge;

two joysticks

Manufacturer: MicroProse, One Caribou Court, Parkton, MD

21120

Price: $29.95, cassette or disk

Comments: The review states that Hellcat Ace "is the first real-
time flight simulator for the Atari home computers. While the
graphics are not stunning, the game plays well and holds your
interest with multiple skill levels and a variety of scenarios."

"Fancy aerobatics are easily done," says the review. "Hellcat
Ace is an effective flight/combat simulator . . . with enough vary-
ing difficulty to interest both the novice and the professional
pilot." Reader Service number 409

(Reviewed in ANTIC, May 1983)

BASIC A +

System Requirements: Atari computer; at least 32K, preferably

48K RAM; disk drive

Manufactuer: Optimized Systems Software, 10379 Lansdale

Ave., Cupertino, CA 95014

Price: $80

Comments: BASIC A +, says the review, "is a disk-based

machine language version of the Basic language and is compatible

with Atari Basic." You must own Atari's Basic reference manual,

for the documentation with BASIC A + is only a supplement to

that manual.

"BASIC A +," continues the review, "provides many new
statements which will make things easier and quicker . . . For
anyone who wishes to use a powerful Basic while still remaining
compatible with Atari Basic, this is the way to go!" Reader Service
number 410

(Reviewed in ANTIC, May 1983)

Microcomputing, September 1983 99

Logic Simulator/Logic Designer

System Requirements: Apple II or II Plus; 48K RAM; ROM Ap-
plesoft; preferably two disk drives

Manufacturer: Spectrum Software, 690 West Fremont Ave., Sun-
nyvale, CA 94087
Price: $250

Comments: This program's goal, according to the review, is to
help the electronics designer build and test prototype circuits.
The Logic Designer module," states the review, "allows drawing
a circuit in schematic form by placing the various gates and flip-
flops on a gridded pattern on the CRT. . . . The completed circuit is
automatically saved to disk before being analyzed with the Logic
Simulator module."

Although the program is disk-intensive, and hence rather slow,
continues the review, it is unquestionably a timesaver. "With a
capacity," concludes the review, "for one thousand gates, sixteen
shift registers, sixteen separate user-defined macros and more, the
Logic Simulator is indeed a formidable piece of software." Reader
Service number 415

(Reviewed in Softalk, May 1983}

MAG/base

System Requirements: 8080, 8085, Z-80, 8086, 68000 or Z-8000
CPU, depending on version; CP/M, MP/M, CP/M-86, MP/M-86 or
UNIX; 48K or 54K RAM; two floppy disk drives or hard disk drive;
CRT with 24 x 80 screen, clear screen and cursor addressing; 80-
to 132-column printer and additional CRT abilities recommended
Manufacturer: Micro Applications Group, 7300 Caldus Ave.,
VanNuys, CA 91406

Price: $295 to $795, depending on level purchased
Comments: "MAG/base," says the review, "is a database man-
agement system" with which "you can define files, change their
contents, search for records that fall into a specific category, pre-
pare forms and letters and produce advanced reports, all with no
programming."

The program, especially appropriate in business environments,
according to the review, comes at three levels; its error handling is
good and its documentation is excellent. The review concludes: "I
offer my congratulations to Micro Applications Group for bringing
a well-implemented, easy-to-use database- management system to
the microcomputer community." Reader Service number 404

(Reviewed in InfoWorld, March 14, 1983)

Solarsoft

System Requirements: Apple II Plus; 48K RAM; two disk drives;
80-column printer optional

Manufacturer: Solarsoft, Inc., PO Box 124, Snowmass, CO 81654
Price: $700 for entire package

Comments: Solarsoft is a four-program design package for pas-
sive solar buildings. According to the review, Sunpas, the first pro-
gram, "can quickly estimate the auxiliary heating requirements
and solar contribution of a passive solar building." A second pro-
gram, Sunop, "calculates life-cycle costs of the passive solar
system or determines the optimal mix of energy conservation and
passive solar features for particular design and system cost
regimes."

Tswing, states the review, is a thermal analysis program that cal-
culates temperatures at certain locations in a building, and the last,
Solgain, "calculates the clear-day solar gains on the twenty-first
day of each month." The programs of this package, concludes the
review, "are the state of the art in microcomputer estimation tech-
niques. . . . They are a quick and inexpensive alternative to main-
frame simulation methods." Reader Service number 412

(Reviewed in BYTE, May 1983)

A BASIC Compiler (ABC)

System Requirements: Atari computer; at least 40K RAM; one

disk drive

Manufacturer: Monarch Data Systems, PO Box 207, Cochituate,

MA 01778

Price: $69.95

Comments: "ABC," says the review, "can make your Atari Basic

programs run from four to twelve times faster and possibly use less

memory." ABC reads your Basic programs from disk, translates

them into P-code and then writes a compiled version onto disk.

Your programs must be bug-free to begin with, and some Basic
commands are not supported and must be removed, but the re-
view concludes that "I found ABC to be quite friendly and easy to
use. I highly recommend it to professional software developers
and hobbyists alike." Reader Service number 408

(Reviewed in ANTIC, May 1983)

Black Jack Strategy

System Requirements: Apple II or II Plus; 48K RAM; ROM Ap-
plesoft; one disk drive

Manufacturer: Soft Images, 200 Route 17, Mahwah, NJ 07430
Price: $69.95

Comments: "Blackjack Strategy," says the review, "presents a
basic, no frills approach to blackjack, mostly designed for the nov-
ice. . . .The program does what it says it will do." It does not, how-
ever, deal with advanced skills like card counting.

According to the review, the graphics displays are good and the
manual helpful. The review concludes that "Blackjack Strategy is
terrific for people who are casually interested in blackjack." Read-
er Service number 416

(Reviewed in Softalk, May 1983)

Gertrude's Secrets and Puzzles

System Requirements: Apple II; DOS 3.3 or Applesoft; one disk
drive; color TV or monitor

Manufacturer: The Learning Company, 4370 Alpine Road, Por-
tola Valley, CA 94025
Price: $75 each

Comments: According to the review, Gertrude's Secrets and Ger-
trude's Puzzles are two of a series of six programs developed by the
Learning Company as educational software for preschoolers to
early teens. The goal is interactive learning by discovery and by
making choices that strengthen logic and reasoning.

The manual, states the review, is "sparse," but the on-screen
documentation is helpful. The review concludes that "Parents
wishing to buy innovative, creative software that can teach as well
as entertain their young children will be hard pressed to find any
better." Reader Service number 405

(Reviewed in Infoworld, February 14, 1983)

ANTIC, 297 Missouri St., San Francisco, CA 94107.
BYTE, 70 Main St., Peterborough, NH 03458.

Classroom Computer News, published by Intentional Educations, Inc., 341
Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02172.

COMPUTE!, published by Small System Services, Inc., PO Box 1 5AGk 1
Greensboro, NC 27403.

InfoWorld, published by Popular Computing, Inc., 375 Cochituate Road, Box
880, Framingham, MA 01701.

Softalk and Softalk for the IBM Personal Computer, 11160 McCormick St.,
North Hollywood, CA 91601.

Table. Addresses of the magazines publishing the software reviews digested in this
department.

100 Microcomputing, September 1983

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SLICK PAGES? NO!
GREAT DEALS? YES!

Computer Shopper pages aren't slick because they
were designed for one purpose: to put buyers in touch
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in bargains on new and used equipment and software

Individuals nationwide are able to list their pre-
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reds of classified ads in over 100 big 11x14 pages

And to make sure there were enough buyers for
advertisers, the subscription price was set low, too 1

So strike your first deal by taking advantage of this
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Grandma's
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CLUBLIST: Granny uses this program to keep track of
her quitting club. Records names etc., dues expiration,
prints out roster. 8K Version up to 25 members, 16K
Version 90. $11.95

MATH DRILL: This one is so all the younguns can
practice their ciphers. 3 levels of difficulty on all four
arithmetic operations. $9.95

MORSE CODE: Drills user in code recognition $9.95

AMORTPRINT: Compute payment amount & print an
amortization table. $9.95

If you want a program list or have a dandy program for
sale write to Grandma's.

Grandma's Software

Box 1105

San Bernardino, California 92402

California folks please add 6% for sales tax.

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Supports the
6801 micro-
computer family

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including a 4x2 "
prototyping area

2K Bylas

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1 Complete
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MC6801 APPLICATIONS PROTOTYPE BOARD

The APB is a small board which supports the MC6801 family of microcomputers It is
described in Motorola's application note AN799 A typical 6801 member contains an
enhanced 6800 processor, 2K bytes of ROM. 128 bytes of RAM a 16-bit programmable
timer parallel I O and a serial communications interface In addition to the resources
of the 6801 the APB provides an additional 2K bytes of EPROM (TMS2716) 2K bytes of
RAM (21 14L) and a full duplex RS-232 interface It also supports special versions such
as the 6801G1 with its LILbug' monitor, and provides on-board programming of the
68701 EPROM version

The APB is an excellent educational aid which allows for evaluation and familiarization
of 6801 family members It is great tor prototype development. Since the nuts and

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Besides being so practical, it is a fun little board Order yours today'

TM ot Motorola Semiconductor Products Inc
APB-1 Bare board with documentation J

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744D 1 side/ dbl dens $22.30

745 2 sides/dbi dens $31.00

746 1 side/quad 96 tpi $33.80

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8" Specify soft or 32 Sector

740 1 side sgl/dens $23.60

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Microcomputing, September 1983 101

In Search of Better
Floppy Performance

This article answers the question, "How do I increase floppy
disk performance?" and helps you choose a density level

you can live with.

My microcomputing system's hard-
ware arrived approximately two
months before the software. This
caused a variety of learning experi-
ences—one of which was the quest for
better floppy disk performance.

My experiences with the delivery of
hardware had been so traumatic that I
wasn't going to wait for the software
to be delivered. This turned out to be a
good move; it took less than a week to
get a single-density BIOS (Basic In-
put/Output System) for CP/M version
2.2 coded and running.

The BIOS is the part of CP/M that is
hardware-dependent, therefore chang-
ing from machine to machine. The
BDOS (Basic Disk Operating System)
calls the BIOS to perform operations
such as the reading or writing of a disk
sector. The BIOS changes these logical
requests into whatever sequence of in-
structions is necessary to accomplish
them on the hardware it supports. The
BDOS is hardware-independent, and
serves as a machine-independent in-
terface for user programs.

The standard eight-inch, single-den-
sity disk was amazingly unimpressive
with respect to performance. Addi-
tionally, with 26 sectors per track, it
provided only 24 IK of user file space.
As a result, it lasted only a few days
before double density was up.

Not only did double density provide
a reasonable increase in performance,
but with 50 sectors per track, it pro-
vided 464K of user file space.

Skewing Around

The skewing factor for both single-
and double-density disks is the same.
Skewing factors attempt to anticipate
the amount of computing that will be
done on a disk sector so that rotational
delays are minimized when the next

102 Microcomputing, September 1983

By John Potochnak

sector is accessed.

Before the BDOS calls the BIOS to
read or write, it calls the BIOS with a
logical sector number; the BIOS sector
translation routine returns the phys-
ical sector number corresponding to
that logical sector number. The BDOS
then uses this physical sector number
in doing the data transfer. This is called
sector translation; it allows the user to
control or experiment with skewing.

The skewing factor for both single
and double density is 6, which means
that for logical sectors 1 , 2 and 3, phys-
ical sectors 1, 7 and 13 actually would
be accessed. The time it takes for the
disk to rotate over the six intervening
sectors gives the processor a chance to
do something with the current sector's
data. Therefore, a program load is
slowed down by a skewing factor of 6,
since it does nothing with the current
sector but dump it to memory.

However, an assembly may be able
to process one sector's worth of source
file in time to read the next sector,
thus saving a rotation. So you can see
that the skewing factor you select de-
pends on what you're doing. I tried 4
and 12, and both were faster for some
things and slower for others.

A skewing factor of 6 cuts half the
time distance between sectors on dou-
ble density when compared to single
density. This is because there are al-
most twice as many sectors around a
track on double density, making the
distance between sectors roughly half
that of single density.

At first I chose to halve the time
distance because the single-density
skewing factor had been selected when
CPUs were much slower. Later I found
6 to be optimal in my environment.

Note that a skewing factor greater
than 1 may be required to prevent

missing the next sector every time. If
the processor is unable to get back to
the disk controller in time to read the
next sector, even during a program
load, a rotation per sector will be
wasted. This results in a significant
decrease in performance.

Double density lasted for about six
weeks while I became familiar with
the machine. By this time I was start-
ing to peruse sections of the CP/M
manuals that I had neglected.

The Alteration Guide includes an
example for hard disks that indicates
that storage capacity and performance
could be increased dramatically by in-
creasing the physical sector size. Since
capacity was not a problem, any addi-
tional disk space made available would
be used for performance improvement.

A Repeating Pattern

The spec sheets for the WD- 1795
disk controller chip and a few calcula-
tions indicated that a sector size of 512
bytes would allow for an increase in ca-
pacity of 25 percent. This is caused by
the way in which a disk is formatted.

Roughly, there is a repeating pattern
of sector header, gap, sector data rec-
ord and gap around the disk. The gap
after the sector header gives the disk
controller time to recover so that it can
read or write the data record. The gap
after the data record is required since
a write to disk may be slightly longer
or shorter than last time.

The difference in written size could
be caused by slight speed variations in
disk rotation, temperature changes or
tolerances in disk drives. The capacity

Address correspondence to John M. Potochnak,
106 Birchwood Terrace, Wayne, NJ 07470.

increase is the result of fewer sector
headers and fewer gaps. Larger sec-
tors (1024 bytes) did not increase disk
capacity and had the drawback of re-
quiring a larger blocking/deblocking
buffer in the BIOS. (More on sector
blocking/deblocking later.)

The hope was that increasing the sec-
tor size would decrease the number of
physical I/Os, resulting in an increase
in performance. In fact, this was the
case, but the performance increase
was not as spectacular as I had hoped.

Since the goal was increased perfor-
mance, I decided to select a density
and direct all efforts toward its perfor-
mance.

Single density was out because its
capacity was simply too limited. Dou-
ble density had the possibility of being
compatible with other machines, but I
found out that double-density compat-
ibility was destined to remain a dream.
Since the larger sector format, which
eventually was named Extended Den-
sity (ED), provided both greater capa-
city and a performance advantage, it
was chosen.

Extended density boasts 16 512-byte
sectors per track, giving a disk capaci-
ty of 512 x 16 x 77 tracks = 616Kon
a single-sided, eight-inch disk. Two
tracks are allocated for booting and
the directory is 4K, leaving 596K avail-
able for file storage. The cluster or
allocation size is 4K; therefore, each
file is a multiple of 4K in length. This
wastes more space than a cluster size
of2K.

The reason for adopting the larger
cluster size was the amount of file that
could be pointed to by one directory
entry. If 4K is used, one directory en-
try can represent 64K of file. If 2K is
used, only 16K of file can be repre-
sented. Fewer directory entries means
fewer directory accesses, which should
help increase performance. I never
did do any tests with a 2K cluster size,
so I can't say that the larger cluster
size gives a measurable increase in
performance.

Byte Business

A CP/M directory entry is a 32-byte
record. The first 16 bytes hold infor-
mation such as the file name, name
extension and which extent this is.
The second 16 bytes are pointers to
the file data. They will be single-byte
pointers if the disk holds 256 or fewer
clusters; otherwise, they'll be double-
byte pointers, allowing for a disk with
65,536 clusters. If a file cannot be
represented by one directory entry,
enough additional directory entries

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Microcomputing, September 1983 103

will be allocated to represent the file.
Each 32-byte directory entry is also
called a physical extent.

Going from 64K per directory entry
to 16K is caused by the switch from
single-byte cluster pointers to double-
byte cluster pointers. The number of
2K clusters is 300 on an extended den-
sity disk, and 300 is bigger than 255,
which is the largest cluster number
that can be represented in an eight-bit
byte. The number of 4K clusters is
only 150, which can be represented in
a single-byte pointer. So, 16 pointers at
4K per pointer yield 64K per directory
entry; eight double-byte pointers at 2K
per pointer yield only 16K per direc-
tory entry.

CP/M expects all disk transfers to be
done in 128-byte chunks. This forces
the BIOS to block/deblock the larger
sectors for CP/M, effectively making
the larger sector size invisible outside
of the BIOS.

Initially, the same blocking/deblock-
ing code that appeared in the Altera-
tion Guide was installed in the BIOS.
The result was about a 20 percent
decrease in wall-clock time to perform
an assembly, with listing, over double
density. Unfortunately, I no longer
have a version of the BIOS with this
scheme installed. It would have been
nice to include this scheme in the tim-
ing table.

Standard Blocking/Deblocking

The standard blocking/deblocking
scheme performs one optimization. It
utilizes the type-of-write information
passed to the BIOS routine to avoid
prereading sectors. Prereading may

CP/M expects all disk transfers

to be done in 128-byte chunks.

This forces the BIOS to

block/deblock the large

sector for CP/M . . .

be necessary because each physical
sector contains four CP/M sectors.

The BIOS does not know, when it
wants to write a 128-byte CP/M sec-
tor, whether other CP/M sectors in the
physical disk sector already have been
written. Since the hardware permits
only full-sector reads or writes, the
BIOS may have to read the 512-byte
physical sector and deposit the 128-
byte CP/M sector into it in order to
write.

The BDOS passes information to the
BIOS on each write. The writes may
be one of three types: a normal write,
a directory write or a write to the first
sector of an unallocated cluster.

The unallocated write type is used
by the standard scheme to set a counter
allowing prereads to be avoided for the
entire cluster, provided the entire
cluster is written in order. This makes
a big difference for certain types of
I/O; for example, simple file transfers
tend to run about twice as fast as they
would without this optimization.

This simple scheme has one prob-
lem. If a few sectors of the unallocated
cluster were written and then it be-
came necessary to read or write some-

where else, the benefit of not preread-
ing would be lost when you returned.
With this in mind, I believed that if
vectors representing allocated but un-
written disk sectors were maintained,
one could cut down significantly on
prereads. The case in mind was an as-
sembly that read a source and wrote
an object file and a listing. The code
did cut down on prereads, but the
overall decrease in wall-clock time
was only three percent.

Undaunted, I decided that perhaps a
hardware solution might be in order.
In minicomputerland, disks are cached
on a variety of machines. Since green
actually would have to be coughed up
for a cache memory bank, painstak-
ingly detailed research was in order to
be sure that the cash outlay would be
justified. CP/M was moved down to
the 48K boundary to free up the 16K
above it for a cache. A truly Spartan,
simplistic caching scheme was coded
and an assembly was timed. 1 then
ran out and bought another 64K RAM.

The caching scheme reads/writes
file data in cluster-size chunks. For ex-
ample, reading a 128-byte sector in the
first 4K of a file will cause the entire
cluster to be transferred into a cache
buffer. Subsequent reads will access
only the cache buffer. No I/O-to-disk
will occur until a cluster boundary is
crossed.

Writes are also done into cluster-
size cache buffers. These buffers stay
around, resulting in a substantial de-
crease in disk I/Os.

Disk Cache Results

Table 1 shows the final results of the

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NAME

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STATE, ZIP
FORMAT _

Microcomputing, September 1983 105

Density

unalloc

cache

Skewing factor

2 1

TYPE

63 62

C Compile

435

385

380

397

360

396

345 341

ZASM with listing

633

540

500

503

420

493

174 167

ZASM without

listing

222

207

151

155

148

153

112 109

PIP two disks

17 13

PIP one disk

15 14

ASM with listing

43 41

26K program load

2.5

3 2

Legend

Single density

Double

• density

Extended density (i

to optimizations)

ED unalloc

Extended density (unallocated optimization)

ED cache

Extended density (24K of cache)

Table 1. Performance results of different density labels. Table shows time in seconds to complete
various tests.

disk cache. Even for intensely proces-
sor-bound activities such as the C
compile, the wall-clock time to per-
form the compile was down by 1 1 per-
cent from double density. Intensely
active I/O programs, like the Z-80 as-
sembler, were running jobs through in
less than a third of the original time.

The final caching scheme is as fol-
lows: The allocation size of 4K (which
is half a track) was chosen as the cache
buffer size. This greatly simplified the
code, and it probably is efficient, since
a cache buffer contains data for only
one CP/M file.

A single read from disk transfers 32
128-byte CP/M sectors. The 512-byte
physical sectors are not skewed;

skewing is not necessary because the
data is transferred as one continuous
block into a cache buffer. On a write
from cache, only those sectors in the
buffer that have been modified are
written.

Originally, extended density was
hardware skewed by 2. The skewing
factor of 2 was necessary because
the processor did not always get
back in time to read the next block in
sequence.

Since the skewing was done by writ-
ing skewed sector numbers in the sec-
tor headers, skewed and nonskewed
disks can be used by both the caching
and the noncaching schemes. This is
true because the BIOS does not have

to know about the skewing— it occurs
in disk-controller hardware, which
performs the sector header search.
There are just some performance
trade-offs.

With no skewing factor, the latency
(the time you must wait for the de-
sired sector to come around to the
read/write head) and the actual read/
write require, on the average, only
one rotation. For a skewing factor of 2,
latency plus transfer time equals IV2
rotations.

Flushing Buffers

A directory write flushes all cache
buffers for that drive before writing
the directory block. The directory is
not cached. This is simply for protec-
tion. If the directory were cached, you
could change a disk, and CP/M's di-
rectory checksum would not catch the
change. This would make it easy to
damage the disk.

Boot tracks are not cached, either;
they're loaded sequentially into mem-
ory, and the cache offers no benefit in
this case. The cache buffer selection
algorithm also makes it not worth-
while to cache the boot tracks, since
any reasonable amount of work will
flush the boot data from cache.

Finally, since the directory is not
cached, it must be read after a reboot
to log in the disk. This means that the
head would be engaged right after the
reboot anyway, so the additional cost
of reading the boot tracks is small.

One other minor optimization was
added later when I discovered that
simple I/O operations (e.g., file
transfers) suffered a little due to the

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Circle 383 on Reader Service card.

Circle 359 on Reader Service card.

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pey ehipping. Texas orders add 5M>%
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80 CHARACTER VIDEO BOARD -S-100

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• Two 2716s — program & character rom's

• Optional 2716 for CHARACTER GRAPHICS

• All screen & keyboard ram

• SIMULTANEOUS I/O or Memory mapped

• Z-80 MPU-2 or 4 Mhz system clock

• Easy to adapt Software

• Uses only EASY-TO-GET parts

• Use in any S-100 system

• 696 Bus Compliance: D8 M16 18 T200

• Build for less than $200

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Add 3% for Mastercard and Visa

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312/359-7337

106 Microcomputing, September 1983

overhead imposed by the cache. The
optimization was that cache buffers
filled by writes are flushed immedi-
ately and not aged. This allows a full
cache buffer— which you probably will
not use again— to go out immediately,
making it available for use.

The caching scheme originally was
built on top of the sector block-
ing/deblocking code. For this reason,
all disk data goes through the sector
blocking/deblocking buffer. In a pure-
ly caching BIOS, this isn't necessary,
since the desired sector can be ex-
tracted directly from the cache buffer,
saving some time.

The sector blocking/deblocking buf-
fer still is required for directory reads
and writes, and it's handy for utilities
that write the disk independently of
the BDOS. These utilities can call the
BIOS directly, specifying that their
write is a directory write, whether it is
or is not, thus insuring an immediate
write to disk.

The actual cache buffers are in the
second RAM bank. All disk I/O on ex-
tended density (except for the boot
tracks and directory I/O) go through
this RAM bank. The data is moved
from and to the cache buffer to and
from the sector blocking/deblocking
buffer.

The blocking/deblocking code takes
care of getting the 128-byte sector re-
quested by the BDOS and putting it in-
to the location requested by the
BDOS. The number of 4K cache buf-
fers currently is six; more buffers
didn't give an appreciable increase in
performance. This uses up only 24K of
the second RAM bank, allowing much

The extra RAM bank

cost me less than $300. The

increase in performance

easily offset this cost.

of the BIOS to be moved into the sec-
ond bank.

LRU Scheme

The scheme for selecting a cache
buffer is LRU (Least Recently Used).
This is easy to implement; each time a
cache buffer is touched, it is made the
youngest. When a buffer is needed for
a read or write, the oldest is selected.
Selection will dump any modified sec-
tors to that cache buffer.

The following advantages "fell" out
of the caching scheme. The cache is
much easier on the disk drives. Reads
and writes tend to happen much less
often. The continuous head move-
ment caused by a program reading a
source and writing both an object and
a listing is gone. Programs that bounce
back and forth between two (or more)
disk drives get 32 sectors per bounce
rather than one, so the constant clunk-
ing is gone. When you work with small
files, you tend to run entirely in the
cache.

After going through this process, it
seemed amazing that many small bus-
iness systems don't have a caching

BIOS as an option. The extra RAM
bank cost me less than $300. The in-
crease in performance easily offset
this cost when the $3500 cost of the
system was considered.

Additionally, the extra bank allows
the BIOS to grow in size and func-
tionality without impacting the limited
space available to programs running
under CP/M. My BIOS is more than
4K; 3K of it is in the second RAM
bank, allowing a 63K CP/M to be used.

See Table 1 for the wall clock times
required to perform certain common
functions. The hardware used for
these tests was manufactured by SD
Systems. The CPU was SD's SBC-200,
and 4 MHz CPU board; RAM con-
sisted of two ExpandoRAM-II 64K
boards. The disk controller was a
Versafloppy-II. Two Shugart 801
single-sided, double-density, eight-
inch disk drives were used.

One deviation from off-the-shelf
hardware was that the disk I/O was
done through a DMA controller. I/O is
not overlapped with processing; the
only reason for the DMA controller is
to allow type-ahead. So if anything,
disk I/O is slightly slower than with
the non-DMA off-the-shelf system.

The same initial conditions for each
test were used at each density/skew-
ing factor. A blank disk was used to
start each test. The times in Table 1
therefore are best cases, since the disk
was not fragmented. (Fragmented
means that the disk has been in use for
a while, so that deleting or creating
files has forced the allocation of
clusters to a file to be noncontiguous.
Note that the more fragmented the

Circle 156 on Reader Service card.

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Microcomputing, September 1983 107

disk, the better the advantages of
cache over noncache, because so
much head movement is eliminated.)

The following files were PIPed to
each disk in the order listed:

For the C compile:

• SuperSoft C parser

• SuperSoft C code generator

• IK run time source code linkage
module

• 24K C test program
After the compile:

• 32K pseudo-code file generated by
parser

• 66K .ASM file generated by code
generator

For the Z-80 assembly without a
listing:

• SD Systems ZASM assembler

• 59K Z-80 test program
After the assembly:

• 9K object file

• 160K listing

For the Z-80 assembly without a
listing:

• SD Systems ZASM assembler

• 59K Z-80 test program
After the assembly:

• 9K byte object

The CP/M assembler

did not show such a

marked improvement over

double-density, so it

probably does its
I/O in more sectors.

For the Type:

• 59K Z-80 test program

For the disk-to-disk PIP (two
drives):

• PIP

• 59K test file
After the PIP:

• Second disk, originally blank, con-
tained the 59K test file

For the disk-to-disk PIP (one drive):

• PIP

• 59K test file
After the PIP:

• Same disk contained two copies of
the test file

For the CP/M ASM assembler test:

• ASM

Circle 167 on Reader Service card.

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• 2 IK test program consisting of the
statements ORG 100H, 1500 times
"LXIH r 0000H", END.

After the assembly:

• 13K object file written by
assembler

• 44K listing file written by
assembler

For the program load:

• 26K .COM file

Keep in Mind . . .

When examining Table 1, you
should take the following considera-
tions into account.

The single-density disk was nearly
filled by the Z-80 assembly, with list-
ing, so the distance the head had to
move was at a maximum. The same
test on ED filled a little more than a
third of the disk.

The SD assembler (ZASM) seems to
read and write only a sector at a time.
The result is that it performs poorly
without the cache, since there is
excessive head movement.

The CP/M assembler did not show
such a marked improvement over
double density, so it probably does its
I/O in a larger number of sectors. Also,
since the ASM program had no com-
ments, it was "denser" than the SD
assembler test program. This could ac-
count for the smaller performance im-
provement.

The two columns (in Table 1) labeled
"ED" and "ED unalloc" with a skew-
ing factor of 1 show what happens
when too small a skewing factor is se-
lected. In these cases, the software
couldn't get back to the disk controller
in time to read or write the next sector
without losing a rotation— even on a
program load.

Most tests were from the carriage
return, which invoked the tests until
the CP/M prompt printed; therefore,
they included the reboot. The PIP
tests were exceptions to this; they
were from PIP prompt until the next
PIP prompt.

The Type test was done using the
CP/M type command and therefore
did not include a reboot. For the C
compile, which required two com-
mands, the second cotwmatfvd was
typed ahead so no time would be lost
after the first phase finished.

Bear in mind that only a small sub-
set of the number of the options avail-
able were tried. This was due to lazi-
ness, or, more likely, not thinking
of them.

If you have found ways to achieve
better floppy performance, I certainly
would like to read about them.B

108 Microcomputing, September 1983

SERIAL PRINTER

upper/lower case & graphics

capability

bidirectional, 132 character line

RS232, 120cps, ASCII, 7 x 9 dot

matrix

built in self test

sprocket feed, 2'/2" to 15" width

I 1 0, 300, I 200 bps

keyboards available (limited

quantity) $75.00

shipping wt. 80 lbs.

$500.00 f.o.b. our warehouse

HAZELTINE 1421
BRAND NEW

1 2 inch P4 phos

24 x 80 characters

5x8 dot matrix, block cursor

95 displayable ASCII characters

White on black background, two

intensities, blink or blank

2048 x 8 Random Access Memory

EIA RS232Cat I 10. 300, 600.

1 200. 1 800. 2400. 4800 or 9600

baud (switch selected)

Odd, Even, One or Zero (switch

selected)

Half duplex or full duplex (switch

selected)

15'/2" wide 13'/2" high 20'/z" deep

28 lbs.

ADM-3A Emulation

Consul 580 Emulation

Fully addressable cursor

$450.00 f.o.b. our warehouse

CENTRONICS 101 A

164 cps. ASCII, 9x7 dot matrix
tractor feed (adjustable to 1 5")
Centronics parallel
interfaces available (call for prices)
shipping wt. 1 20 lbs.
$225.00 upper case only
$350.00 u/l case & graphics
all prices f.o.b. our warehouse

SHUGART 8" DISK DRIVE

SS/DD

Model 800-2

requires 1 I5VAC(24VDC, + 5VDC.

-5VDC)

$140.00 (new)

$ 1 00.00 (used) limited useage

shipping wt. 16 lbs.

all prices f.o.b. our warehouse

OMNITECH ACOUSTIC COUPLER

• 300 baud

• originate only

• tested before shipment

• shipping wt. 10 lbs.

• $50.00 fob. our warehouse

CONRAC MONITOR

• 9 inch, P4 phos

• 80 x 24 characters

• composite video in (RCA phono)

• controls in front panel

• shipping wt. 30 lbs.

• $45.00 f.o.b. our warehouse

TELEPHONE DIALERS

32 number memory

last number redial

works on pulse or tone

battery back up

shipping wt. 5 lbs.

$20.00 f.o.b. our warehouse

HAZELTINE

1410
BRAND NEW

24 x 80 characters

5x7 dot matrix, block cursor

64 displayable ASCII char.

White on black background

2048 x 8 Random Access Memory

EIA RS232C at 110, 300, 600,

1 200, 1 800, 2400, 4800. or 9600

baud (switch selected)

Odd, Even, One or Zero (switch

selected)

Half duplex or full duplex (switch

selected)

15'/2" wide 13'/2" high 20'/2" deep

28 lbs.

Fully addressable cursor

$300.00 f.o.b. our warehouse

DUAL DISK DRIVE CABINET

FITS ALL Shugart 800 series

I 1 5 VAC motor supply & all cables

shipping wt. 30 lbs.

$50.00 f.o.b. our warehouse

CONRAC RGB MONITOR

19 inch

80 x 24 characters— 500 line res.

no cabinet

shipping wt. 75 lbs.

RGB video in $475.00

composite video in $575.00

all prices f.o.b. our warehouse

MISC

• DB-25 (m to m, m to f)

TELEPHONES & EQUIPMENT

• multiline phones from $20.00

• single line from $ I 5.00

• 25 pr. cable w/ends (25) $10.00
key system equipment available all
prices f.o.b. our warehouse

\119 S. Napa Street Philadelphia PA 19146
Phone: (215) 468-4645»(21 5) 468-7891

P59 to BNC cable
P59 to blank cable
"Muffin" fans
"Sprite" fans
8" fans

Power cords (w/o ends) 5'
Power cords (w/ends) 5'

10+ $15.00

2' 3/$5.00

5" 6/$5.00

$ 3.00 (6/$ 15.00)

$10.00

6/$5.00

3/$5.00

Pa. residents add 6% sales tax. All prices f.o.b. our warehouse. All
products carry a replacement warranty. All merchandise accurate as
to description to the best of our knowledge.

Circle 205 on Reader Service card.

Microcomputing, September 1983 109

UARANTEED!

Circle 48 on Reader Service card.

S-100 Memory Boards

S- 100 I/O Boards

S-100 CPU Boards

64K Static RAM - JADE

Uses new 2k x 8 static RAMs, fully supports IEEE69624 bit
extended addressing, 200ns RAMs lower 32K or entire
board phantomable. 2716 EPROMs may be subbed for
RAMs. any 2K segment of upper 8K may be disabled, low
power typically less than 500ma

MEM-99152B
MEM-99152K

MEM-32152K
MEM-56152K
MEM-64152K

Bare board
Kit less RAM

32K kit

56K kit

64K kit

Assembled & Tested

$49.95

$99.95

$189.95

$269.95

$279.95

add $50.00

EXPANDORAM III

ExpandoRAM III expandable from 64K to 256K using
64K x 1 RAM chips, compatible with CP/M. MP/M. Oasis, &
most other Z-80 based systems, functions as ultra-high
speed disk drive when used with optional RAMDISK
software

MEM-65064A
MEM-65128A
MEM-65192A
MEM-65256A

64K A & T
128K A & T
192K A & T
256K A & T

SFC-55009000F RAMDISK sftwr CP/M 2.2
SFC-5500900F RAMDISK with EXRAM III

$474.95
$574.95
$674.95
$774.95
$44.95
$24.95

Letter Quality Printers

The Bus Probe - JADE

Inexpensive S-100 Diagnostic Analyzer

TSX-200B Bare board

TSX-200K Kit

TSX-200A A & T

1/0-4 - SSM Microcomputer

2 serial I/O ports plus 2 parallel I/O ports
IOI-1010A A & T

I/0-5 - SSM Microcomputer

Two serial & 3 parallel ports, 110-1 9 2K Baud
IOI-1015A A & T

Interfacer 4 - CompuPro

3 serial, 1 parallel. 1 Centronics parallel

IOI-1840A A & T

IOI-1840C CSC

$59.95
$129.95
$159.95

$249.95

$289.95

$314.95
$414.95

S-100 EPROM Boards

PB-1 - SSM Microcomputer

2708. 2716 EPROM board with on-board programmer
MEM-99510A A & T with manual $219.95

SBC-200 - SD Systems

4 MHz Z-80A CPU with serial & parallel I/O. 1K RAM. 8K
ROM space, monitor PROM included

CPC-30200A A & T $329.95

The Big Z - JADE

2 or 4 MHz switchable Z-80 CPU board with serial I/O.
accommodates 2708. 2716. or 2732 EPROM. baud rates
from 75 to 9600

CPU-30201B Bare board w manual

CPU-30201K Kit with Manual

CPU-30201A A & T with Manual .

$35.00
$149.95
$199.95

2810 Z-80 CPU - CCS.

2 or 4 MHz Z-80 CPU with serial I/O port & on board
monitor PROM, front panel compatible

CPU-30400A A & T with PROM $289.95

CPU-Z CompuPro

2 or 4 MHz Z-80A CPU. 24 bit addressing

CPU-30500A 2 4 MHz A & T

CPU-30500C 3 6 MHz CSC

$279.95
$374.95

8085/8088 - CompuPro

Both8 & 1 6 bit CPUs, standard 8 bit S- 100 bus. up to 8 MHz.
accesses 16 Megabytes of memory

CPU-20510A MHz A & T $398.95

CPU-20510C 6 8 MHz CSC $479.95

Lowest Price Daisywheel Printer - JUKI

Full featured daisywheel printer with graphics node and
built-in word processing functions 18 CPS print speed,
13-inch platen, 10, 12, or 15 pitch plus proportional
spacing Uses standard IBM ribbons. This is an extremely
reliable letter quality printer, at an unheard of low price!

PRD-61001 Parallel $629.95

PRD-61002 RS232 serial board $59.95

PRA-61000 Tractor option $139.95

380Z by Data Terminals & Communications

Based on the same quality mechanism as the Comrex
printer, the 380Z contains electronic enhancements that
allow it to print at speeds up to 32 CPS Other features
include a 48K buffer, proportional spacing and Diablo
1640/1650/630 compatible protocol. Comes with
printwheel, ribbon and users manual Serial, parallel, and
IEEE 488 interfaces standard

PRD-11300 380Z printer $1295.00

PRA-11000 Tractor option $169.95

PRA-12000 Cut Sheet Feeder $699.95

OKIDATA 82
OKIDATA 92
OKIDATA 93
OKIDATA 83
OKIDATA 84

70"
70"
75"
75"
75"

Printers From JADE

720 CPS

760 CPS

720 CPS

200 CPS

OKIDATA 2410 75 350 CPS

DAISYWRITER 2000 48K Daisywheel
GEMINI 10X 720 CPS with Graphics

GEMINI 15 75" with Graphics

TTX-1014 Daisywheel Printer

PRA-43086 ROMs for Okidata 92

PRA-43087 ROMs for Okidata 93

_ CALL

CALL

_ CALL

CALL

$1395.00

$349.95

$579.95

$49.95

PROM-100 - SD Systems

2708, 2716. 2732 EPROM programmer with software

MEM-99520K Kit with software $189.95

MEM-99520A A & T with software , $249.95

32K PROM/RAM Board

The 32K S-100 PROM/RAM board can hold up to 16 each
2716 style EPROMs. 6116 style RAMs. or 8 each style
EPROMs This board was designed to fit into holder S-100
systems as well as the newer IEEE-696 machines Uses 5
volt only EPROM/RAMs. allows operation as a 2K to 32K
board, meets IEEE-696 S-100 proposed standard,
addressable as two 16K blocks on any 64K page, supports
Cromemco as well as Northstar bank select, perfect for
MP/M systems

MEM-99153B Bare board & manual $49.95

Kit with No RAM $89.95

MEM-99153K
MEM-99153A

MEM-16153K
MEM-16153A
MEM-32153K
MEM-32153A

A & T with No RAM
Kit with 16K RAM _
A & T with 16K RAM
Kit with 32K RAM _
A & T with 32 K RAM

$139.95
$129.95
$179.95
$179.95
$229.95
_ $4.90

Call Us For Lowest Prices On EPROMs - 2732s

Video Monitors

Video Monitors - USI

Ultra-high (1000 lines) resolution, 20 MHz bandwidth.
Available in 9 inch or 1 2 inch, amber or green screen USI is
the "Cadillac" of monochrome video monitors!

VDM-740920
VDM-740910
VDM-741220
VDM-741210

9" green _
9" amber _
72" green
12" amber

$129.95
$149.95
$159.95
$179.95

PLACE ORDERS TOLL FREE

Dual Disk Sub-Systems

Disk Sub-Systems - JADE

Handsome metal cabinet with proportionally balanced air
flow system, rugged dual drive power supply, power cable
kit, power switch, line cord, fuse holder, cooling fan, never
mar rubber feet, all necessary hardware to mount 2-8 inch
disk drives, power supply, and fan. does not include signal
cable

Dual 8-inch Sub-Assembly Cabinet

END-000420 Bare cabinet $49.95

END-000421 Cabinet kit $199.95

END-000431 A & T $249.95

8-inch Sub-Systems - Single Sided, Double Density

END-000423 Kit w/2 Siemens FD100-8DS $650.00

END-000424 A & T w 2 Siemens FDWOSDs _ $695.00

END-000433 Kit w 2 Shugart SA-801RS $999.95

END-000434 A & T w/2 Shugart SA-801Rs _ $1195.00

8-inch Sub-Systems - Double-Sided Double Density

END-000426 Kit w 2 Qume DT-8s $1274.95

END-000427 A & T w2 Qume D-8s $1474.95

END-000436 Kit w 2 Shugart SA-851Rs $1274.95

END-000437 A & T w/2 Shugart SA-851Rs _ $1474.95

EPROM Erasers

Ultra-Violet EPROM ERASERS

Inexpensive erasers for industry or home

XME-3100A Spectronics wo timer

XME-3101A Spectronics with timer

XME-3200A Logical Devices

$69.50
$94.95
$49.95

Continental U.S.

800-421-5500

Inside California

800-262-1710

We accept cash, checks, credit cards, or Purchase Orders from qualified firms and institutions.
Minimum prepaid order $15.00 California residents add 6' / 2 % tax Export customers outside the U.S. or
Canada please add 10% to all prices Prices and availibility subject to change without notice.

Shipping and handling charges via UPS Ground 50C/lb UPS Air $1 00/lb minimum charge $3.00

For Technical Inquires
or Customer Service call:

213-973-7707

5 1 / 4 inch Disk Drives

Modems

Single Board Computer

Tandon TM 100-1 single sided, double density 48 J PI
MSM-551001 $219 95ea 2 for $199.95 ea

Shugart SA 400L Sigle sided, double density 40 track
MSM-1 04000 $234 95 ea 2 for $224.95 ea

Tandon TM 100-2 Double sided, double density 48 TPI
MSM-551002 $294 95 ea 2 for $269.95 ea

TEAC FD5SA Single sided, double density 40 track
MSM-660551 $299 95 ea 2 for $239.95 ea

5 1 / 4 ir.ch Cabinets with Power Supply

END-000216 Single cab w power supply $69.95

END-000226 Dual cab w power supply $94.95

S-100 Motherboards

ISO-BUS - JADE

Silent, simple and on sale - a Better Motherboard
6 Slot (5% inch x 8% inch)

MBS-061B Bare board

MBS-061K Kit

MBS-061A A & T

12 Slot (9% inch x 8% inch)

MBS-121B Bare board

MBS-121K Kit

MBS-121A A & T

18 Slot (14 1 / 2 inch x 8% inch)

MBS-181B Bare board

MBS-181K Kit

MBS-181A A & T

$22.95

$39.95

_ $69.95

_ $34.95

$69.95

$109.95

$54.95
$99.95

$149.95

8 inch Disk Drives

Siemens FDD
MSF-201120

Shugart SA 801 R
MSF-10801R

700-8 Single sided, double density
$274.95 ea 2 for $249.95 ea

Single sided, double density
$394 95 ea 2 for $389.95 ea

Shugart SA851R
MSF-10851R

Double sided, double density
$554 95 2 for $529.95 ea

Qume DT-8
MSF-750080

Double sided, double density
$554 95 2 for $529.95 ea

Tandon TM848-1 Single sided, double density thin line
MSF-558481 $379 95 ea 2 for $369.95 ea

Tandon TM848-2 Double sided, double density thin line
MSF-558482 $494 95 ea 2 for $484.95 ea

NEC FD1165 Double sided, double density half high
MSF-558482 $485 00 ea 2 for $449.95 ea

NEW! CP/M plus 3.0

CP/M 30 is Digital Research's latest version of the
industry standard disk operating system. It features many
performance improvements, such as intelligent record
buffering, improved diretory handling, "HELP"
facility, time date stamping of files and many more
improvements AND A TREMENDOUS INCREASE IN
SPEED!' it is fully CP/M 2 2 compatible and requires no
changes to your existing application software Available
only to Versafloppy II owners with SBC-200 CPUs

SFC-55009059F Unbanked.
SFC-55009057F Banked.
SFC-55009057D Manual _

CP/M Plus On EPROM

SFC-55009059E Unbanked RS232

SFC-55009057E Banked RS232

$250.00

$50.00

$400.00
$400.00

Smart Buy in MODEMS - Signalman

1200 and/or 300 baud, direct connect, automatic answer
or originate selection, auto-answer/auto-dial on deluxe
models 9v battery allows total portability, full one
year warranty

IOM-5600A 300 baud direct connect $89.95

IOM-5610A 300 baud Deluxe $149.95

IOM-5620A 1200/300 baud Deluxe $369.95

IOM-5650A 300 baud for Osborne $119.95

IOM-5630A 300 baud card for IBM $269.95

Smartmodem - HAYES

Sophisticated direct-connect auto answer/auto dial
modem, touch tone or pulse dialing. RS-232C interface,
programmable

IOM-5500A Smartmodem 1200 $599.95

IOM-5400A Smartmodem 300 $224.95

IOK-1500A Hayes Chronograph $218.95

IOM-1100A Micromodem 100 $368.95

IOM-2010A Micromodem II w I term prgm $329.95

IOM-2012A Terminal program for MMII $89.95

IOM-5550A Smartmodem 1200B $549.95

1200 Baud Smart Cat - NOVATION

103/212 Smart Cat & 103 Smart Cat, 1200 & 300 baud,
built-in dialer, auto redial if busy, auto answer/disconnect,
direct connect. LED readout displays mode, analog/digital
loopback self tests, usable with multi line phones

IOM-5241A 300 baud 103 Smart Cat $229.95

IOM-5251A 1200 baud 212 103 Smart Cat $549.95

J-CAT Modem - NOVATION

1/5 the size of ordinary modems. Bell 103, manual or
auto-answer, automatic answer/originate, direct connect,
built in self test, two LEDs and audio beeps provide
status information

IOM-5261A Novation $149.95

S-100 Disk Controllers

DISK 1 - CompuPro

8 inch or 5V 4 inch DMA disk controller, single or double
density, single or double sided, 10MHz

IOD-1810A A & T $449.95

IOD-1810C CSC $554.95

Versafloppy II - SD Systems

Double density disk controller for any combination of
5y 4 inch and 8 inch single or double sided, analog phase
locked loop data seperator, vectored interrupts CP/M 2 2
Oasis compatible, control/diagnostic software PROM
included

IOD-1160A A & T with PROM $359.95

SFC-55009047F CPM 3.0 with VF-11 $139.95

2422 Disk Controller - CCS.

5V 4 inch or 8 inch double density disk controller with on
board boot loader ROM. FREE CP/M 2 2 & manual set

IOD-1300A A & T with CP/M 2.2 $399.95

Double D - JADE

High reliability double density disk controller with on
board Z-80A. auxiliary printer port IEEE S-100 can
function in multi-user interrupt driven bus

IOD-1200B Bare board & hdwr man $59.95

IOD-1200K Kit w hdwr & sftwr man $299.95

IOD-1200A A & T w hdwr & sftwr man $325.95

SFC-59002001F CPM 2.2 with Double D $99.95

Superquad - ADV. MICRO DIGITAL

Single board standard size S-100 computer system, 4 MHz
Z-80A single or double density disk controller for 5% inch
or 8 inch drives, 64K RAM extended sddressing. up to 4K of
EPROM. 2 serial & 2 parallel I/O ports, real time interrupt
clock. CP/M compatible

CPC-3800A A & T $724.95

IOX-4232A Serial I/O adapter $29.95

8" Slimline Sub-Systems

Dual Slimline Sub-Systems - JADE

Handsome vertical cabinet with scratch resistant baked
enamel finish, proportionally balanced air flow system,
quiet cooling fan, rugged dual drive power cables, power
switch, line cord, fuse holder, cooling fan. all necessary
hardware to mount 2-8 inch slimline disk drives, does not
include signal cable

Dual 8-inch Slimline Cabinet
END-000820 Bare cabinet $59.95

END-000822 A & Two drives

$179.95

Dual 8-inch Slimline Sub-Systems

END-000823 Kit w 2 SS DD $919.95

END-000824 A & T w 2 SS DD $949.95

END-000833 Kit w 2 DS DD $1149.95

END-000834 A & T w 2 DS DD $1179.95

Accessories for Apple™ II

DISK DRIVE - Apple™ Compatible

Totally Apple'" compatible, 143,360 bytes per drive on
DOS 3 3. full one year factory warranty, half track
capability reads all Apple software, plugs right into Apple
controller as second drive, DOS 3 3, 3 2 1 Pascal & CP/M
compatible

MSM-431010 Drive for Apple $239.95

MSM-431030 Controller only $59.95

MSM-431040 Controller wi software $99.95

16K RAM Card for Apple™ II

Expand your Apple'" II to 64K, use as language card, full
one year warranty Why spend $175 00 9

MEX-16700A Save over $115.00 $49.95

Z-CARD for Apple™ II - A.L.S.

Two computers in one. Z-80 & 6502. more than doubles
the power and potential of your Apple, includes Z-80
CPU card CP/M 2.2 and complete manual set, Pascal
compatible, utilities are menu-driven, one year warranty

CPX-62800A A & T with CP M 2 2 $149.95

80 COLUMN Apple Card

80 column x 24 line video card for Apple II,
addressable 25th status line, normal/inverse or high/low
video. 128 ASCII characters, upper and lower case. 7x9
dot matrix with true descenders CP/M. Pascal & Fortran
compatible 50/60 Hz 40/80 column selection from
keyboard Best 80 column card'

IOV-2450A Viewmax 80 $149.95

IOV-2455A Preboot disk for above $29.95

Serial I/O Card - A.L.S.

Full feature serial card for modems & printers, baud rates
from 110 to 19.200. CTC/RTS & X-on/X-off protocols.
auto line feed. RS-232C cable interface included

IOI-1000A A & T "Dispatcher Card" $129.95

CP/M 3.0 Card For Apple™ - A.L.S.

The most powerful card available for your Apple!

6 MHz. Z-80B. additional 64K RAM, CP/M graphics. 300%
faster than any other CP/M for Apple One year warranty

CPX-62810A A.L.S. CP/M card $349.95

Circle 48 on Reader Service card.

Computer Products

4901 West Rosecrans Ave. Hawthorne, California 90250

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DIGITAL RESEARCH COMPUTERS

(214) 271-3538

32K S-100 EPROM CARD
PRICE CUT!

$59.95

USES 2716s

Blank PC Board - $34

ASSEMBLED & TESTED
ADD $30

SPECIAL: 2716 EPROM s (450 NS) Are $4.95 Ea. With Above Kit.

KIT FEATURES

1 Uses +5V only 2716 (2Kx8) EPROM s

2 Allows up to 32K of software on line'

3 IEEE S-100 Compatible

4 Addressable as two independent 16K
blocks

5 Cromemco extended or Northstar bank
select

6 On board wait state circuitry if needed

7 Any or all EPROM locations can be
disabled

8 Double sided PC board solder-masked,
silk-screened

9 Gold plated contact fingers

10 Unselected EPROM s automatically
powered down for low power

11 Fully bufferod and bypassed

12 Easy and quick to assemble

256K S-100 SOLID STATE DISK SIMULATOR!

WE CALL THIS BOARD THE "LIGHT-SPEED-100" BECAUSE IT OFFERS
AN ASTOUNDING INCREASE IN YOUR COMPUTER'S PERFORMANCE
WHEN COMPARED TO A MECHANICAL FLOPPY DISK DRIVE.

FEATURES:
* 256K on board, using ♦ 5V 64K

DRAMS,
r Uses new Intel 8203-1 LSI Memory

Controller.
i Requires only 4 Dip Switch Selectable

I/O Ports.
i Runs on 8080 or Z80 S100 machines.
' Up to 8 L S-100 boards can be run

together for 2 Meg. of On Line Solid

State Disk Storage.
i Provisions for Battery back-up.
i Software to mate the LS-100 to your

CP/M* 2.2 DOS is supplied.
i The LS-100 provides an increase in

speed of up to 7 to 10 times on Disk

Intensive Software.
i Compare our price! You could pay

up to 3 times as much for similar

boards.

♦■..mimiSr i " * 'if

BLANK PCB

(WITH CP/M* 2.2

PATCHES ON DISK)

$69'

$39900

# LS-100 (FULL256K KIT)

THE NEW ZRT-80

CRT TERMINAL BOARD!

A LOW COST Z-80 BASED SINGLE BOARD THAT ONLY NEEDS AN
ASCII KEYBOARD, POWER SUPPLY, AND VIDEO MONITOR TO MAKE A
COMPLETE CRT TERMINAL. USE AS A COMPUTER CONSOLE, OR
WITH A MODEM FOR USE WITH ANY &F THE PHONE-LINE COMPUTER
SERVICES.
FEATURES:

* Uses a Z80A and 6845 CRT
Controller for powerful video
capabilities.

* RS232 at 16 BAUD Rates from 75
to 19,200.

* 24 x 80 standard format (60 Hz).

* Optional formats from 24 x 80
(50 Hz) to 64 lines x 96 characters
(60 Hz).

* Higher density formats require up to
3 additional 2K x 8 6116 RAMS.

* Uses N.S. INS 8250 BAUD Rate Gen
and USART combo IC.

* 3 Terminal Emulation Modes which
are Dip Switch selectable. These
Include the LSI-ADM3A, the Heath
H-19, and the Beehive.

* Composite or Split Video.

* Any polarity of video or sync.

* Inverse Video Capability.

* Small Size: 6.5 x 9 inches.

# ZRT-80

WITH 8 IN.
SOURCE DISK!

BLANK PCB WITH 2716
CHAR. ROM, 2732 MON. ROM

*59 95

SOURCE DISKETTE - ADD $10

SET OF 2 CRYSTALS - ADD $7.50

$ 129

(COMPLETE KIT,
2K VIDEO RAM)

Digital Research Computers

P.O. BOX 461565 • GARLAND, TEXAS 75046 • (214) 271-3538

64K S100 STATIC RAM

$ 229?°

NEW!

LOW POWER!
RAM OR EPROM!

BLANK PC BOARD
WITH DOCUMENTATION
$55

SUPPORT ICt ♦ CAPS
$17.50

FULL SOCKET SET
$14.50

FULLY SUPPORTS THE

NEW IEEE 696 S100

STANDARD

(AS PROPOSED)

FOR 56K KIT $199

ASSEMBLED AND
TESTED ADD $50

FEATURES:

* Uses new 2K x 8 (TMM 2016 or HM 6116) RAMs.

* Fully supports IEEE 696 24 BIT Extended
Addressing.

* 64K draws only approximately 500 MA.

* 200 NS RAMs are standard. (TOSHIBA makes
TMM 2016s as fast as 100 NS. FOR YOUR HIGH
SPEED APPLICATIONS.)

* SUPPORTS PHANTOM (BOTH LOWER 32K
AND ENTIRE BOARD).

* 2716 EPROMs may be installed in any of top 48K.

* Any of the top 8K (E000 H AND ABOVE) may
be disabled to provide windows to eliminate
any possible conflicts with your system monitor,
disk controller, etc.

* Perfect for small systems since BOTH RAM and
EPROM may co-exist on the same board.

* BOARD may be partially populated as 56K.

64K SS-50 STATIC RAM

$17900

(48K KIT)

NEW!

LOW POWER!
RAM OR EPROM!

BLANK PC BOARD

WITH

DOCUMENTATION

$52

SUPPORT ICs ♦ CAPS
$18.00

FULL SOCKET SET
$15.00

56K Kit $219
64K Kit $249

ASSEMBLED AND
TESTED ADD $50

FEATURES:

* Uses new 2K x 8 (TMM 2016 or HM 6116) RAMs.

* Fully supports Extended Addressing.

* 64K draws only approximately 500 MA

* 200 NS RAMs are standard. (TOSHIBA makes
TMM 2016s as fast as 100 NS. FOR YOUR HIGH
SPEED APPLICATIONS.)

* Board is configured as 3-1 6K blocks and 8-2K
blocks (within any 64K block) for maximum
flexibility.

* 2716 EPROMs may be installed anywhere on
Board.

* Top 16K may be disabled in 2K blocks to avoid
any I/O conflicts.

* One Board supports both RAM and EPROM.

* RAM supports 2MHZ operation at no extra
charge!

* Board may be partially populated in 16K
increments.

NEW!

EPROM II

FULL

EPROM KIT

$•0.00

AST EPROM
ADD $35.00

32K S100 EPROM/STATIC RAM

FOUR FUNCTION BOARD!

BLANK
PC BOARD
WITH OATA

$39 95

SUPPORT

ICS

PLUS CAPS

$23.00

We took our very popular 32K S100 EPROM Card and added
additional logic to create a more versatile EPROM/RAM Board.

FULL
SOCKET SET

FEATURES: * This one board can be used in any on* of four ways:

A. As a 32K 2716 EPROM Board

B. As a 32K 2732 EPROM Board (Using Every Other Socket)

C. As a mixed 32K 2716 EPROM/2K x 8 RAM Board

D. As a 32K Static RAM Board

* Uses New 2K x 8 (TMM2016 or HM6116, RAM's

* Fully Supports IEEE 696 Buss Standard (As Proposed)

* Supports 24 Bit Extended Adressing

* 200 NS (FAST!) RAM'S are standard on the RAM Kit

* Supports both Cromemco and North Star Bank Select

* Supports Phantom

* On Board wait State Generator

* Every 2K Block may be disabled

* Addressed as two separate 16K Blocks on any 64K Boundary

* Perfect for MP/M* Systems

* RAM Kit is very low power (300 MA typical)

32K STATIC RAM KIT — S129.95

For RAM Kit A&T - Add $40

TERMS: Add $2 .00 postage. We pay balance. Orders under $15 add 75$
handling. No COD. We accept Visa and MasterCharge. Tex. Res. add 5%
Tax. Foreign orders (except Canada) add 20% P & H. Orders over $50, add
85$ for insurance.

TM OF DIGITAL RESEARCH INC. (CALIF.)

WE ARE NOT ASSOCIATED WITH DIGITAL RESEARCH INC. (CALIK, THE SUPPLIERS OF CPM SOFTWARE

"THE ORIGINAL BIG BOARD"

OEM - INDUSTRIAL - BUSINESS - SCIENTIFIC

SINGLE BOARD COMPUTER KIT!

Z-80 CPU! 64K RAM!

(DO NOT CONFUSE WITH ANY OF OUR FLATTERING IMITATORS!)

K4M*W^<W&^^

(/>

THE BIG BOARD PROJECT: With thousands sold worldwide and over two years of field experience, the Big
Board may just be one of the most reliable single board computers available today. This is the same design that
was licensed by Xerox Corp. as tne basis for their 820 computer.

The Big Board gives you the right mix of most needed computing features all on one board. The Big Board was
designed from scratch to run the latest version of CP/M*. Just imagine all the off-the-shelf software that can be
run on the Big Board without any modifications needed.

fully socketed! FEATURES: (Remember, all this on one board!)

$279

(64K KIT
BASIC I/O)

SIZE: 8Va x 13 J . IN.
SAME AS AN 8 IN. DRIVE.
REQUIRES: +5V @ 3 AMPS
♦ - 12V @ .5 AMPS.

64K RAM

Uses Industry standard 4116 RAM's. All 64K is available to the user, our VIDEO
and EPROM sections do not make holes in system RAM. Also, very special care
was taken in the RAM array PC layout to eliminate potential noise and glitches.

Z-80 CPU

Running at 2.5 MHZ. Handles all 4116 RAM refresh and supports Mode 2
INTERUPTS. Fully buffered and runs 8080 software.

24 x 80 CHARACTER VIDEO

With a crisp, flicker-free display that looks extremely sharp even on small
monitors Hardware scroll and full cursor control. Composite video or split video
and sync. Character set is supplied on a 2716 style ROM, making customized
fonts easy. Sync pulses can be any desired length or polarity. Video may be
inverted or true. 5x7 Matrix - Upper & Lower Case.

SERIAL I/O (OPTIONAL)

Full 2 channels using the Z80 SIO and the SMC 81 16 Baud Rate Generator. FULL
RS232! For synchronous or asynchronous communication. In synchronous
mode, the clocks can be transmitted or received by a modem. Both channels can
be set up for either data-communication or data-terminals. Supports mode 2 Int.
Price for all parts and connectors: $39.95

FLOPPY DISC CONTROLLER

Uses WD 1 771 controller chip with a TTL Data Separator for enhanced reliability.
IBM 3740 compatible. Supports up to four 8 inch disc drives. Directly compatible
with standard Shugart drives such as the SA800 or SA801.
configured for remote AC off-on. Runs CP/M* 2.2.

Drives can be

BASIC I/O

Consists of separate parallel port (Z80 PIO) for use with an ASCII encoded
keyboard lor input. Output would be on the 80 x 24 Video Display.

TWO PORT PARALLEL I/O (OPTIONAL)

Uses Z-80 PIO. Full 16 bits, fully buffered, bi-directional. Uses selectable hand
shake polarity. Set of all parts and connectors for parallel I/O: $19.95

REAL TIME CLOCK (OPTIONAL)

Uses Z-80 CTC. Can be configured as a Counter on Real Time Clock. Set of all
parts: $9.95 _^_

BLANK PC BOARD — $99.95
The blank Big Board PC Board comes complete with full
documentation (including schematics), the character ROM,
the PFM 3.3 MONITOR ROM, and a diskette with the source
of our BIOS, BOOT, and PFM 3.3 MONITOR.

CP/M* 2.2 FOR BIG BOARD

The popular CP/M* D.O.S. to run on Big Board is available for $139.00.

DOUBLE DENSITY ADAPTER BOARD — $149.95 (A&T)

Requires no cuts or MODS to an existing Big Board. Gives up to 670K storage on
a single sided 8 in. diskette. With software to patch your CP/M* 2.2.

PFM 3.3 2K SYSTEM MONITOR

The real power of the Big Board lies in its PFM 3.3 on board monitor. PFM commands include: Dump Memory, Boot CP/M*, Copy, Examine, Fill Memory, Test Memory, Go To,
Read and Write I/O Ports, Disc Read (Drive, Track, Sector), and Search PFM occupies one of the four 2716 EPROM locations provided. Z-80 is a Trademark of Zilog.

Digital Research Computers

w (OF TEXAS)

P.O. BOX 461565 • GARLAND, TEXAS 75046 • (214)271-3538

TERMS: Shipments will be made approximately 3 to 6 weeks after we
receive your order. VISA, MC, cash accepted. We will accept COD's (for the
Big Board only) with a $75 deposit. Balance UPS COD. Add $4.00 shipping.

USA AND CANADA ONLY

'TRADEMARK OF DIGITAL RESEARCH. NOT ASSOCIATED WITH DIGITAL RESEARCH OF CALIFORNIA, THE ORIGINATORS OF CPM SOFTWARE

"1 TO 4 PIECE DOMESTIC USA PRICE.

COMPUTER-PERIPHERAL SWITCHERS

Conned iny number of peripherals It a single I/O port — use a single printer to tup-
port several microcomputers — use two or more printers to support a tingle
microcomputer - access i modern from any ot several microcomputers - Ideal lor
demonstrating or comparing equipment The Selecto Switches are designed to
eliminate the unnecessary plugging & unplugging ot cables which connect printers,
terminals, or modems to various computers By using a Selecto- Switch, you achieve
more efficient system operation better utilization ot peripherals & computer ports,
eliminate redundant hardware & reduce service calls 5 yr limited warranty on all
Selecto Switches No power required Size (inches) 10L x 7W x 3H 2 'ft lbs

RS232 SERIAL SELECTO-SWITCH

• Switches all lines of asynchronous data • Easy expansion ot
serial ports • Connectors are female DB25 type

P» WT MO. DESCRIPTION PRICE

GRS232-AB 2- Way Switch $139.95

GRS232 ABC 3- Way Switch $179.95

DB25 PARALLEL SELECTO-SWITCH

• TRS-80, Apple, and IBM compatible • Switches 24 lines (line
1 is ground) • Connectors are female DB25 type

WOT MO. DESCRIPTION PRICE

GP24-AB 2-Way Switch $139.95

GP24ABC 3- Way Switch $179.95

CENTRONICS-STYLE SELECTO-SWITCH

• Switches all 36 lines • Connectors are female Centronics

PMTMO. DESCRIPTION PRICE

GCENT-AB 2- Way Switch $199.95

GCENTABC 3- Way Switch $229.95

Micro-Logic Corp.
MICRO-CHARTS V & IftjP

• Fully decoded data • instant access • 2 sided, totally comprehensive • Compact
8Vix11 in durable credit card plastic • Pertect for programmers 4 engineers

• Clear & concise tables tor lull instruction set disassembly. ASCII, base conver-
sion effect of flags, compare vs |ump. interrupt structure, pinout, cycle times,
diagrams, bug notes. & much more

PAR T NO. REFERENCE PRICE

ML-Z80 Z80 CPU $5.95

ML-8080A 8080A/8085A $5.95

ML-6502 6502 (65XX) $5.95

ML 8048 8048, Relatives, Algorithms $5.95

ML 7400 5400/7400 TTL $5.95

BOOKS

30001 National CMOS Data Book (1981) $6 95

(640 pages) 74C. CD4000. and A/D Converters

30003 National Linear Data Book (1982) $11.95

(1376 pages) LM. LF, ADC. DAC. LH Series

30008 National Memory Data Booh (1980) $8.95

(464 pages) RAMs. ROMs. PROMs, EPROMs Series

30009 Intersil Data Book (1983) $9.95

(1356 pages) Complete line.

30010 National Audio/Radio Handbook (1980) $5.95

(240 pages) Pre Amps, AM, FM & FM Stereo, Power Amps

30011 National Linear Application Handbook (1980) $15.95

(736 pages) Application Notes, Linear Briefs, etc.

30012 National PAL Data Book (1982) $5.95

(176 pages) Application Notes, Linear Briefs, etc.

30013 Zilog Data Book (1983) $7.95

(641 pages) Microprocessors and Support Chips

210830 Intel Memory Components Handbook (1983) $14.95

(798 pages) Contains all Application Notes, Article
Reprints. Data Sheets, and other design information
on Intel's RAMs, EPROMs, E'PROMs & Bubble Memories

210844 Intel Microprocessor • Peripheral Handbook (1983) $14.95
(1027 pages) Contains Data Sheets on all of
Intel's Microprocessors and Peripherals.

ATARI

JE300

Universal

-• 50 — /

DTE 8 Panel
DTE 11 Panel
DTE 14 Panel
DTE-20 Pa

ATARI PADDLES

JSP (2) $2.95 pair

ATARI DRIVER

JSD(1) $2.95 ea.

TV GAME SWITCH

Used on Atari. Cosmet-
-^ ically blemished. 100%
functional.

TGS-1 ...$1.95e a.
Digital Thermometer Kit

Dual sensors — switch
controls for indoor/outdoor
or dual monitoring — can be
extended to 500 leet. Con-
tinuous LED 8" ht display.
Range: -40 *F to 199 *F, -40 "C
to 100*C Accuracy ±1*
nominal. Calibrate for
Fahrenheit/Celsius.
— - Simulated walnut case. AC

COO QC wa " ada P ,er included. Size:
. 3>o57.J70 6% "L x 3'A "H x 1*, "D

Computer Keyboard Enclosures

DTE Blank Desk-Top Enclosures
are designed lor easy modifica-
tion High strength epoxy molded
•4^ end pieces in mocha brown finish

rv$> Sliding rear/ bottom panel tor service/

■*> component access' Top/ bott panels 080"
jp thick alum alodine type 1 200 finish (gold tint
^T - color) for best paint adhesion after modification
* Vented top & bottom panels tor cooling efficiency
\ Rigid construction provides unlimited applications

Assembly instructions included

Width 7.5" $24.95

Width 10.13" $27.95

Width 13.5" $29.95

nel Width 19.25" $34.95

5V4" HALF-HEIGHT DISK DRIVES

FIT TWO

TEAC

SINGLE SIDED
•48 tpi

• 40 Tracks

• 250Kbytes
single-sided

• Single/
double density

• Brushless DC
direct-drive motor

• Low 5W power
consumption

• Power req.:

+ 12VDC @ 3A
+ 5VDC & 55A

• 6 msec, track to track

• One year warranty

• Size: 5%-W x 1%"H x

• Weight: 3 lbs 5 oz.

FD55A

DRIVES IN THE SAME SPACE AS ONE CONVENTIONAL 5%" DRIVE

FD55A co«pjtibie with SHUGARTSA455

IBM-PC DOUBLESIDED:

•48 tpi

• 40 Tracks

• 500Kbytes
double-sided

• Single/
double density

• Brushless DC
direct-drive motor

• Power req.:
+ 12VDC @ 75A
+ 5VDC & 7A

• 6 msec, track to track

Keyboard Mask for Your
ZX81/1000* Computer

• Compatible with
SA400/450

• One year warranty

• Size: 5.75 "W x 1.63'H x 8"D

• Weight: 3.3 lbs.

$259.95

FEATURES

• Install in seconds Rimovi
•dh«siv* backing Irom mask
and placa ovar kayboard

• All characters and symbols
reproduced on mesk

• Durable - formed with poly
cerbonite sheet satin finish

JE6SI KEYBOARD MASK

The JE681 Keyboard Mask provides users of the
ZX81/1000 series computer the individual feel of
each keypad on the keyboard The mask has a rais
ed outline around each keypad allowing the user to
feel and correctly position their fingers onto the
keyboard

JE681 KEYBOARD MASK $9 95 each

ZX81/1000* Keyboard
Conversion Kit

JE682AK KEYBOARD
KIT MOUNTED IN DTE
AK ENCLOSURE LIGHT
TAN PANELS WITH
MOLDED DARK BROWN
END PIECES SIZE
MM W « 3'. 1

The JE68J Kit provides users ol Ihe ZX81 1 1000 series computers a lull size M
dustnai keyboard hook up lo their computer The JE682 Kit allows the use ol
either the full si/e keyboard or the Sinclair 'Time* Keyboard The Kit also per
mils the simple disconnection ol the Sinclair /Times Keyboard tor portable
use The JE68? Kit consists ol a full-size industrial grade keyboard with 62
keys. 2 pc boards. 24* ribbon cable. DIP socket and 4 rubber feet The
keyboard conversion kit can easily be mounted into the DTE AK enclosure
This enclosure is large enough lo contain the ZX81'1000 computer and the
lull s./e keyboard together A handy label representing the Zxei'tOOO
keyboard layout is placed on the enclosure

JE682-AK Keyboard Conversion Kit

(WITH DTE AK CASE - AS PICTURED)

JE682 Keyboard Conversion Kit

■WITHOUT DTE AK CASE)

$99.95 ea.

$59.95 ea

'ZX81/1000 is a trademark ol Sinclair/Timex

80-Key Keyboard

CA150C $69.95

95-Key Keyboard

*X < A ■>

*> o > y *;
X X

CA154A

$79.95

CONTROL DATA KEYBOARDS

* 7-bit Parallel ASCII

* SPST Switching
+ FTZ Shielded Base

* N-Key Rollover

* 128 Character ASCII

* Non-Slip, Non-Glare Keycaps

* CDC7S2 Terminal Keyboards

* Attractive Case

These Control Data Keyboards consist of a base, cover,
the keyboard assembly, and an interface cable. Color
(case): Harvest gold and black. Color (keycaps): Black,
blue, and red. Electrical requirements: +5V ca 600mA,
-12V @ 50mA. Size: 21Vi"W x 9"D x 3Vt"H. Weight: 6
lbs. All units brand new in original boxes, specifications
included.

Keytronics 90- Key Soft-Programmable Keyboard

WITH SECURITY KEYLOCK SWITCH

• P.FI shielded

• Cursor controls

• Numeric keyboard

• 8 bit Parallel

• Solid state switches

• 10 user-programmable keys

• Positive TTL Logic

• Size: 17"L x 8V4-W x 2V."H

Made for Visual Technology, this keyboard features: a security keylock (includes two keys) to guard against
unauthorized use; an 11-key numeric keypad; cursor controls; and 10 user-programmable keys. Electrical re-
quirements: + 5VDC. Color (case): White. Color (keycaps): Black Complete with case, keyboard assembly
40-inch interface cable, and schematics. Weight: 7 lbs.

Pari No. KB270 $79.95 each

23"Lx5V4"Wx1-3/8"H

3"L x 3"W x 1Vj-H

MICRO SWITCH 85-KEY KEYBOARD

Word Processing Keyboard. 26 Pin Edge Card Connection. Supply Voltage +5V0C Main Keyboard
is QWERTY Additional Key Pads lor Cursor and word processing (unctions

Part No. 85SD18-1 $29.95 each

HI-TEK 14-KEY NUMERIC KEYPAD

SPST switching Charcoal gray keycaps Mounted on printed circuit board

PartNo.K-14 $9.95 each

POWER SUPPLY +5VDC @ 1 AMP REGULATED Tnn,action Tech

Output + 5VDC (a 1A (also +30VOCI reg Input 115VAC 6OH2 2 tone (black/beige) sell-enclosed
case 6 ft.. 3 cond black power cord 6'/>~W 1 7"0 x 2 VH Wt 3 lbs Data sheet incl

PartNo PS51194S $14.95 each

POWER SUPPLY + 5VDC @ 3 AMP REGULATED De/fron

Input: 115VAC 47440Hz Output 5V0C Adjustable (a 3 amp. 6V0C (n 2 5 amp. Adjustable cur-
rent limit Ripple & Noise 1MV rms. 5MV p-p - 2 mounting surfaces UL recognized Size 4 W i
4V> L i 2-7/16 H - wt 2 lbs Data sheet included.

Part No. QPS-1 $29.95 each

POWER SUPPLY +5VDC @ 7.5 AMP, 12VDC @ 1.5 AMP SWITCHING

Input: 115VAC. 50-60HZ « 3 amp/230VAC. 50Hz (a 16 amp Fan volt /power supply select swit-
ches (115/230VAC) Output: 5V0C ( « 7 6 amp 12VDC<<; 1 6 amp 8ft blk pow cord IIVi'Wi
13V D i 3VH Wt 6 lbs

Part No. PS94V0S $39.95 each

JE664 EPROM PROGRAMMER

8K TO 64K EPROMS — 24 AND 28 PIN PACKAGES

— PROGRAMS 2716's IN 16 SECONDS —

— PROGRAMS 2764's IN 64 SECONDS —

• Programs, validates, and checks lor properly erased EPROMs • Emulates PROMs
or EPROMs • RS232C Computer Interlace lot editing / program loading • Loads data
into RAM by keyboard • Changes data in RAM by keyboard • Loads RAM Irom an
EPROM • Compares EPROMs for content differences • Copies EPROMs • Power In-
put 115VAC. 60Hz. •« 10W power consumption • Enclosure Color-coordinated
light tan panels w/ molded mocha brown end pieces • Size l5-5/8"L x 8%"D x
3VH • Weight 5V. lbs

JE664-A EPROM Programmer $995.00

Assembled & Tested (Includes JM16A Module)

JE665 - RS232C INTERFACE OPTION - The JE665 RS232C interface
Option implements computer access lo Ihe JE664's RAM Sample software written in
BASIC provided lor TRS-80* Model I. Level II Computer Baud rale 9600 Word
Igth 8 bits - odd parity Stop bits 2 Option may be adapted to other computers The
JE665 can be interfaced to any computer with an RS232 port Information is also pro-
vided lor interlacing lo any CP/M system with an RS232 port

JE664-ARS EPROM Prog w/JE6e5 0p«on $1195.00

Assem bled and Tested (Includes JM16A Module)

EPROM JUMPER MODULES - The JE664s JUMPER MODULE (Personality

Module) is a plug-in Module that presets JE664 for proper programming pulses lo

the EPROM & configures EPROM socket connections lor that particular EPROM

P/N EPROM EPROM MANUFACTURER PRICE

AMD Motorola National Intel, Tl $14 95

Intel. Motorola National. NEC. Tl $14.95

Motorola. Tl (+5. -12, + 12) $14 95

JM16A
JM16B
JM32A
JM32B
JM32C
JM64A

JM64B

JM64C
JM64D

2708

2716TMS2516

TMS2716

TMS2532

2732

2732A(21V)

MCM68764.

MCM68L764

2764

TMS2564

HN482764G-4

Motorola. Tl
AMD. Fujitsu.
Fujitsu. Intel

Motorola

Intel

Hitachi (21V)

NEC. Hitachi

$1495

Intel $1495

$1495

$14 95

$1495
$14 95
$14.95

lii's Black Hole
EPROM Eraser

9 Chips — 8 Minutes

The Black Hole EPROM Eraser will completely and safely erase 9 EPROMs in less than
8 minutes The Black Hole is a fully automatic cassette loading eraser featuring
U-shaped 4000 hr UV lamps mounted in a special ALZAK (UV reflectivity of 9)
parabolic light tunnel In operation Ihe user slips in an anti-static Bug Box (3 ea
incl ) containing the EPROMs lo be erased into the loading slot on the front panel of
Black Hole The rest is fully automatic The Black Hole latches Ihe Bug Box into
place, turns on the UV lamps and starts its fully solid state (CMOS) UV integration
dose timer The percentage erasure time is monitored and displayed on a Iront panel
LED readout At the end of the erase cycle, the Black Hole eiecls the Bug Box con-
taining the 9 erased EPROMs and lurns off power
PARTNO. PRICE

U L V-008 Replacement Lamp for ERS-008 $29.95

ERS-008 Eraser. Auto Eject « LEO Readout $249.95

IBM MEMORY EXPANSION KIT

SAVE HUNDREDS OF $$$ BY UPGRADING
MEMORY BOARDS YOURSELF!

Most of the popular memory boards allow you to add an additional
64K, 128K, 192K, or 256K. The IBM64K Kit will populate these boards
in 64K byte increments. The kit is simple lo Install — just insert the
nine 64K RAM chips in the provided sockets and set the two groups
of switches. Directions are included.

IBM64K (Nine 200ns 64K RAMs) $59.95

EXPAND YOUR MEMORY

TRS-80 to 16K, 32K, or 48K

* 'Model 1 ■ From 4K to 16K Requires (1) One Kit
Model 3 - From 4K to 48K Requires (3) Three Kits
Color = From 4K to 16K Requires (1) One Kit

"Model 1 equipped with Expansion Board up to 48K Two Kits Required
— One Kit Required lor each 16K ol Expansion —

TRS-16K3 *200ns for Color & Model III $12.95

TRS-16K4 *250ns for Model I $10.95

TRS-80 Color 32K or 64K Conversion Kit

Easy to install kit comes complete with 8 ea 4164-2 (200ns) 64K
dynamic RAMs & conversion documentation. Converts TRS-80 color
computers with E circuit boards, & all new color computers to 32K.
Minor modifications of 32K memory will allow the use of all the 64K of
the dynamic RAM providing you have a FLEX DOS operating system

TRS-64K2 $54.95

POWER SUPPLY 4-Channel Switching - Apple Compatible

FOR USE AS AN EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLY FOR APPLE

Microprocessor mini-computer, terminal, medical equipment and process control application! In-
put 90 130VAC 47-440HZ Output + 5V0C (a 5A. -5V0C (a 1A; +12VDC (a 1A, -12V0C (« 1A
Line req ±0 2\ Ripple 30mV p-p Load reg ±1% Overcurrent protection Adj 5V main out-
putirlOS 6-3/8"L x 1-7/8-W « 4-15/16"H Wt. IV. lbs

Part No. FCS-604A $69 95 each

$10.00 Minimum Order — U.S. Funds Only
California Residents Add 6V*% Sales Tax
Shipping — Add 5% plus $1.50 Insurance
Send S.A.S.E. for Monthly Sales Flyer!

Spec Sheets — 30c each
Send $1.00 Postage for your
FREE 1983 JAMECO CATALOG
Prices Subject to Change

Mail Order Electronics -Worldwide

ameco

ELECTRONICS

VISA

1355 SHOREWAY ROAD, BELMONT, CA 94002
9/83 PHONE ORDERS WELCOME — (475) 5928097 Telex: 176043

5Va" Mini-Floppy Disk Drive

FOR TRSaO MODEL I COLOR COMPUTER

Features single or double density Recording mode FM
single MFM double density Seek lime 25msec track lo
track Power ♦ 12VDC (±0 6V) 1 6A max. +5VDC
(*025V)0BAmax Unit aspic at right does not md case
power supply, cables) 30-pg data book incl Wt 3Vi lbs
Sim 5*"Wx8"Ox3Ki"H

Pari No. Limited Quantity! Price

FD200 $179.95

Single sided. 40 tracks, 2SOK bytes capacity

FD250 $199.95

Double-sided. 35 tracks. 438K bytes capacity

8: FLOPPY DISK DRIVE

m?2?

• Shugart 801 R
compatible

• Single-Sided

• 77 Tracks

• 400/800K Bytes
Capacity

• Industry Standard

The FDD100 8 8" Floppy Disk Drive (Industry Standard) features
single or double density Recording mode: FM single, MFM double
density Transfer rate: 250K bits/sec. single density; 5O0K bits/sec
double density. The FDD100-8 is designed to work with the single
sided soft sectored IBM Diskette I, or eq disk cartridge Power
115VAC& 50-60H2, + 24VDC & 1.7 amps max., +5VDC@12amps
max. Unit as pictured above (does not include case, power supply or
cables). Size: 8 55"W x 14 "L x 4.5 "H. Weighs 12 lbs Incl 96-po
manual

Pan No.

Price

FD D1 00-8. $169.95 ea.

114 Microcomputing, September 1983

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Microcomputing® • List of Advertisers

Reader Service Number

Page Reader Service Number

273 ABC Data Products 47

401 AcquisData, Inc 98

109 Alcor Systems CHI

468 Allen Systems 134

487 Alphacom, Inc 141

492 AmdekCorp 140

481 Anadex 139

94 Analytical Processes Corp 18

193 AppleComputer 74, 75

76 Apropos Technology 40

493 Axiom Corporation 140

26 BG Computer Applications 47

131 Bay Technical Assoc., Inc 82

462 Business Planning Systems 136

396 Bytek Computer Systems 39

365 Bytesize Computer Products 96

298 Bytesize Computer Products 97

344 Bytewriter 65

148 CDR Systems, Inc 72

283 CGRS Microtech 41

262 Cab-Tek, Inc 49

369 Cardco, Inc 5

275 Cer-Tek 104

170 Chips&Dale 79

121 Compucable 19

90 Compucover 77

484 Compuscope 139

* Computer Continuum 77

18 Computer Design Labs 33

120 Computer Discount of America 27

460 Computer Dynamics 134

185 Computer Friends 79

489 Computershop, Inc 139

36 Computer Shopper 101

57 Computing! 61

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297 Concord Computer Products 120

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197 Cornucopia Software 49

252 Cuesta Systems 101

293 D& N Micro Products 43

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* Digital Research Computers 112, 113

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471 8th Dimension Enterprises 134

465 Einstein Corp 136

169 Elcomp Publishing, Inc 29

93 Electronic Specialist 55

111 Estes Engineering 78

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206 Fort Worth Computers 49

299 Franklin Computer 9

370 Franklin Computer 11

331 Franklin Computer 13

480 Franklin Computer 138

84 Gateway Maximizer 97

486 Gladstone Electronics 141

Page Reader Service Number

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461 Golden Braid Software 134

342 Grandma's Software 101

261 GTEKCorp 59

236 Heath Co 131

116 Heritage 26

251 Holmes Engineering 14

394 Howard W. Sams&Co 25

130 ISE/Micro Data Base Systems 81

67 Innovative Data 72

463 Innovative Software, Inc 134

67 Innovative Data Technology 72

128 Innovative Technology 101

Instant Software, Inc.

187 Disk Library 129

186 DOSCustomizer 127

118 English Olympics 68

345 International Software Alliance 59

92 JPC Products Co 143

* JRT Systems/Blue Earth 21

134 JV Software 107

48 Jade Computer Products 110, 111

41 Jameco Electronics 1 14

193 Jaxon 219

246 Johnson & Johnson 38

288 Keystone Info. Products 101

5 Kisko 103

355 Leading Edge Products, Inc dV

405 Learning Company, The 100

300 Link-Up Magazine 73

198 LNW Research Corp 55

373 Logical Devices, Inc 143

204 Lyben Computer Systems 101

165 Lyben Computer Systems 104

475 (M)agreeable Software, Inc 137

482 Mannesmann Talley Corp 138

115 Mechanix Illustrated 26

325 Mega Byte 42

382 Memorex 17

* Memotech Corp 71

316 MFJ Enterprises 103

404 Micro Applications Group 100

466 Micro Architect, Inc 136

239 Micro Craft Corp CII

417 Micro Fun 99

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329 Micro Management Systems 42

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483 Microperipheral Corp 140

409 MicroProse 99

491 Microtek, Inc 139

235 Midwest Micro, Inc 39

♦This advertiser prefers to be contacted directly.

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51 Midwest Software 42

408 Monarch Data Systems 100

• NRI Schools 23

• NetronicsR& D, Ltd 79

55 New England Business Systems 51

419 Oasis Systems 98

410 Optimized Systems Software 99

488 Orange Micro, Inc 138

420 PCsoftware 98

172 Pacific Exchanges 97, 104

212 Pacifica Technology 62

85 Percom 3

266 Perry Computers 105

108 Personalized Computer Paper 106

469 PolytronCorp 134

277 Priority One Electronics 118, 119

485 Pronto Computers, Inc 141

233 Protecto 77

366 RKS 105

402 Redox Software 98

123 SLRSystems 105

156 Safeware 107

403 Sawhney Software 98

383 Schoolmaster Programming Co 106

43 Scientific American 53

205 Selectronics 109

359 Simpliway Products Co 106

14 Sintec 34

132 Sixty Eight Micro Journal 107

416 Soft Images 100

421 Software 1040 98

412 Solarsoft, Inc 100

167 Solutions, Inc 108

406 Southwestern Data Systems 99

413 Southwestern Data Systems 99

415 Spectrum Software 100

361 Star Micronics, Inc 15

467 Star Software Systems 136

313 Starware 14

244 Sun Research, Inc 143

39 Sunlock Systems 39

418 Syntauri Corp 99

318 TNWCorp 46

189 TabSales 32

339 Techstar, Inc 103

260 Thoughtware, Inc 83

494 Trak Microcomputer Corp 138

203 U.S. Digital Corp 123

53 Upwego 127

470 United Software Associates, Inc 136

473 Vertex Systems 137

* Wayne Green, Inc.

•Binders 145

• Book Nook 1 116

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• Wayne Green Books 57, 127, 133

472 Webber Software 136

414 Xerox Education Publications 99

311 York lOComputerware 45

For further information from our advertisers, please use the Reader Service card.

Microcomputing, September 1983 115

Introductory Special Interests

WORD PROCtSSING

R
O
C

M
P
U

T
I

N
G

WORDSTAR MADE EASY by Walter A. Ettlin. Now Word-
Star is as simple to learn as it is easy to use. This book
teaches WordStar in 14 easy lessons, saving hours of
hard work, it comes with a convenient pull-out Command
Card. BK 1239 $12.95

THE 8086/8088 PRIMER— An Introduction to their Ar-
chitecture, System Design and Programming, Second
Edition by Stephen P. Morse This is written by the man
responsible for the design of the 8086 microprocessor
and provides novices and professionals alike with a
through introduction to Intel's 8086 and 8088
microprocessors. The book discusses architecture —
the machine organization of the 8086/8088, covering
register and memory structure, addressing modes and
the 8086/8088 instruction set. Chapters on program-
ming include a low level programming language,
ASM-86, and a high level language, PUM-86, plus the
PASCAL language. BK1274 $11.95

MICROCOMPUTER DATA COMMUNICATIONS
SYSTEMS by Frank J. Derfler. This text has a lot of
good information on message systems and informa-
tion utilities; the fundamentals of data communica-
tions, modems, terminals, and software for specific
microcomputers. Interesting and informative for the
beginner, yet a good reference for the experienced
data communications user. BK1243 $12.95

INTRODUCTION TO WORD PROCESSING by Hal

Glatzer. This book explains in plain language what a
word processor can do, how to use one, how it improves
productivity — especially in businesses that handle lots
of words— and how to buy one wisely. No technical
knowledge required, for all first-time users and those
considering purchasing a word processor. BK1238 $12.95

MASTERING CP/M— by Alan R. Miller For advanced
CP/M users or systems programmers who want max-
imum use of the CP/M operating system, this book
takes up where the CP/M Handbook leaves off. It will
give you an in-depth understanding of the CP/M
modules such as CCP (Console Command Processor),
BIOS (Basic Input/Output System), and BDOS (Basic
Disk Operating System). It explains the incorporation
of additional peripherals to the system, console I/O,
the use of the file control block and much more. It also
includes a library of useful macros and a comprehen-
sive set of appendices. BK 1263 $16.95

DON'T (or How to Care for Your Computer)— by Rod

nay Zaks. In plain language, with numerous illustra-
tions, this book tells all the do's and don't's of the care,
preservation and correct operation of the small com-
puter system Specific chapters cover each piece of
hardware and software, as well as safety and security
precautions and help for problem situations. Have
your computer work right the first time and keep it
working. No technical background required. For all
computer users. BK1237 $11 95.

YOUR FIRST COMPUTER — by Rodnay Zaks Whether
you are using a computer, thinking about using one or
considering purchasing one. this book is indispen
sable It explains what a computer system is. what it
can do. how it works and how to select various compo
nents and peripheral units It is written in everyday Ian
guage and contains invaluable information for the nov
ice and the experienced programmer (The first edition
of this book was published under the title "An In-
troduction to Personal and Business Computing )
BK1191 $8 95*

MICROPROCESSOR INTERFACING TECHNIQUES
by Austin Lesea & Rodnay Zaks — will teach you how to
interconnect a complete system and interface it to all
the usual peripherals It covers hardware and software
skills and techniques, including the use and design of
model buses such as the IEEE 488 or S-100 BK1037
$18.95 *

A USER GUIDE TO THE UNIX SYSTEM by Jean Yates
and Rebecca Thomas. Here at last is a clearly written
book that allows you to use the Unix operating system
easily, and at a fraction of the time it previously took. If
you're using, evaluating or simply curious about this sys-
tem, this is your book. BK 1242 $17.95

THE CP/M HANDBOOK (with MP/M)— by Rodnay Zaks.
A complete guide and reference handbook for CP/M —
the industry standard in operating systems. Step-by-
step instruction for everything from turning on the
system and inserting the diskette to correct user
discipline and remedial action for problem situations.
This also includes a complete discussion of all ver-
sions of CP/M up to and including 2.2, MP/M and
CDOS. BK1 187 $14.95.*

THE PERSONAL COMPUTER BOOK- Peter A. McWil-
liams. You've read all about personal computers and
you're not quite sure what they are. This book has the an-
swers to your questions. It's funny, and you'll get a kick
out of reading it, but you'll learn what personal comput-
ers are, what they can do, and what they cost. There are
chapters on programming, word processing, business,
games, education, kids and computers. You'll also find
out what computers cannot do and now to figure out if
you need one. A special name-brand buying guide
presents detailed information on the most popular mod-
els and some you may not have heard of to help you se-
lect a system. You won't find a lot of jargon or technical
information that's way over your head. You'll find an
amusing and informational introduction to personal
computers. BK1279$9.95

THE WORD PROCESSING BOOK. A Short Course in
Computer Literacy— Peter A. McWilliams. If you've
heard about "word processing" and have no idea what
that means, Peter A. McWiliams tells you all about it.
Even if you know nothing at all about computers, this
book sheds some light on word processing in a
humorous and informative fashion. The book has three
sections— What Word Processing Computers Are and
What They Do, The Uses of Word Processing Computers,
Selecting and Purchasing a Word Processing Computer.
Topics include an introduction to computers, word pro-
cessing for school, business, writers, the self-employed,
selecting a word processing computer, deciding if a
word processor is right for you, and the disadvantages of
word processing. A special feature is the name brand
buying guide, which gives evaluations of some of the
most popular personal computers, printers, and word
processing software. BK1278 $9.95

HOW TO MAKE MONEY WITH COMPUTERS-ln 10 in-
formation-packed chapters, Jerry Felsen describes
more than 30 computer-related, money-making, high
profit, low capital investment opportunities.
BK1003 $15.00.*

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WAYNE GREEN BOOKS

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I .earn Digital

Ironies While
Building Your Ow
Computer!

B
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TEXTEDIT— A Complete Word Processing System in
Kit Form— by Irwin Rappaport. TEXTEDIT is an inex-
pensive word processor that you can adapt to suit your
differing needs— from form letters to lengthy texts.
Written in TRS-80 Disk BASIC, the system consists of
several modules, permitting the loading and use of on-
ly those portions needed. A disk is also available which
provides the direct loading of the modules, however,
the book is required for documentation. For Model I
and III with TRSDOS CONVERT., one disk drive (2 disk
drives or copy utility needed to transfer to system
disk). Runs under TRSDOS 2.2/2.3. May not function
under other systems. BK7387 $9.97 Disk DS7387 $19.97

KILOBAUD KLASSROOM — by George Young and Peter
Stark Learning electronics theory without practice isn't
easy And it's no fun to build an electronics project that
you can't use Kilobaud Klassroom the popular series
first published in Kilobaud Microcomputing, combines
theory with practice. This is a practical course in digital
electronics It starts out with very simple electronics
projects, and by the end of the course you'll construct
your own working microcomputer!

Authors Young and Stark are experienced teachers,
and their approach is simple and direct. Whether you're
learning at home or in the classroom, this book provides
you with a solid background in electronics— and you'll
own a computer that you built yourself! BK7386 $14.95

COMPUTER CARNIVAL— by Richard Ramella. Your
child can become a crackerjack computerist with the
sixty TRS-80 Level II programs in COMPUTER CARNI-
VAL. This large-type, spiral bound book for beginners
is a veritable funhouse of games, graphics, quizzes
and puzzles. Written by 80 Micro columnist Richard
Ramella, the programs are challenging enough to en-
sure continued learning, yet short enough to provide
your child with the immediate delight and reward of
mastering basic computing skills. And for even greater
enjoyment, get the CARNIVAL COMPANION, a 30-mi-
nute cassette containing all the programs in the book.
Eliminates tiresome typing and lets your child spend
more time enjoying the programs. BK7389 $16.97
CC7389 Book and Cassette $24.97

THE NEW WEATHER SATELLITE HANDBOOK-by Dr.

Ralph E. Taggart WB8DQT. Here is the completely up-
dated and revised edition containing all the informa-
tion on the most sophisticated and effective space-
craft now in orbit. This book serves both the experi-
enced amateur satellite enthusiast and the newcomer.
It is an introduction to satellite watching, providing all
the information required to construct a complete and
highly effective ground station. Solid hardware
designs and all the instructions necessary to operate
the equipment are included. For experimenters who
are operating stations, the book details all procedures
necessary to modify equipment for the new series of
spacecraft. Amateur weather satellite activity repre-
sents a unique blend of interests encompassing elec-
tronics, meteorology and astronautics. Join the privi-
leged few in watching the spectacle of earth as seen
from space on your own monitoring equipment.
BK7383$8.95.*

THE SELECTRIC INTERFACE— by George Young. You
need the quality print that a daisy wheel printer pro-
vides but the thought of buying one makes your wallet
wilt. SELECTRICTM INTERFACE, a step-by-step guide
to interfacing an IBM Selectric I/O Writer to your micro-
computer, will give you that quality at a fraction of the
price. George Young, co-author of Kilobaud Microcom-
puting magazine's popular "Kilobaud Klassroom"
series, offers a low-cost alternative to buying a daisy
wheel printer. SELECTRIC INTERFACE includes: step-
by-step instructions, tips on purchasing a used Selec-
tric, information on various Selectric models, includ-
ing the 2740, 2980, and Dura 1041, driver software for
Z80, 8080, and 6502 chips, tips on interfacing tech-
niques. With SELECTRIC INTERFACE and some back-
ground in electronics, you can have a high-quality, low-
cost, letter-quality printer. Petals not included. BK7388
(125 pages) $12.97

ANNOTATED BASIC A New Technique for Neo-
phytes — Put your BASIC knowledge to work for you
with this 2-volume set of TRS-80 Level II BASIC pro-
grams. Gain a better understanding of the elements
and techniques involved in programming. Annotated
BASIC'S uniquely designed format breaks each pro-
gram down for you to include: initial documentation
and instruction, definitions of New BASIC Concepts,
flowchart, annotations of sections, showing how each
part fits into the whole, and explaining why certain
BASIC commands are chosen over similar ones.
Using the programs as they are or modifying them to
sharpen your programming skills, Annotated BASIC is
a helpful tool for any BASIC programmer.
BK7384 (Vol. 1, 152 pages) $10.95
BK7385 (Vol. 2, 136 pages) $10.95

Peterborough NH 03458. Be sure
al book for U.S. and foreign sur-
Service at the above address.

FOR TOLL FREE ORDERING CALL 1-800-258-5473

Programming/Languages

6502/Apple/Vic

ASSEMBLY LANGUAGE PROGRAMMING FOR THE
APPLE II— by Robert Mottolz. This comprehensive,
easy to understand introduction provides solid
groundwork for getting started in assembly language
programming on the Apple II." Many subroutines writ-
ten in assembly language are provided, and most ex-
planations are shown with equivalent examples in
BASIC. There's an excellent section on hexadecimal
arithmetic included, as well as appendices for further
study. BK1249 $15.95

APPLE MACHINE LANGUAGE— by Don Inman and
Kurt Inman. APPLE MACHINE LANGUAGE builds
upon your previous knowledge of BASIC, and teaches
you the machine language in small, easy, completely
illustrated steps. Following this guide, you will be able
to write machine language programs directly, using
the Apple System Monitor. Each new program is
thoroughly presented in functional blocks, with
sketches of how each step will actually appear on the
video screen. Soon you will be entering and executing
your own machine language programs, with predic-
table results! BK1248 $14.95

APPLE BASIC FOR BUSINESS: for the Apple II — by

Alan J. Parker and John Stewart. Unlike most introduc-
tory BASIC books, this book uses files extensively. It is
written specifically for the Apple II microcomputer
with DOS Version 3.2. All programs presented are com-
patible with DOS Version 3.3. With the emphasis on
problem-solving, the focus of this book is the point at
which problem elements meet language capabilities.
BK1247 $15.95

COMPUTEI'S 1ST BOOK OF VIC— Compiled by the
Editor of COMPUTE! Magazine. This book is a selec-
tion of some of the finest articles on the Vic 20 that
have appeared in COMPUTE! Magazine, and a collec-
tion of previously unpublished material. Whether you
are just starting out with your Vic, or are already an ad-
vanced user, you'll quickly discover that this book is a
valuable addition to your computer library. Easy to use,
sprial bound. BK1255 $12.95

VIC REVEALED— by Nick Hampshire. A complete look
at the Vic 20's hardware capabilities. Vic Revealed show
users how to expand their assembly-language program-
ming skills and learn advanced programming tech-
niques. Outstanding features of the VIC are covered and
the complete instruction set for the 6502 CPU is in-
cluded, as well as options for using machine-code
subroutines in VIC BASIC programs. There's also a
detailed VIC memory map and explanations of BASIC
ROM variables, user memory and data storage. BK1281
$12.95

TRICKS FOR VICs— by Sam D. Roberts. Programs and
projects for the VIC-20 computer. Includes ready-to-run
programs that range from games to a simple word pro-
cessor. There are sections on input/output programming
and an introduction to machine language. A discussion
of hardware projects shows VIC owners how to enhance
their computers, so that they can adapt their computers
to specific needs. BK1284 $9.95

GAMES FOR THE ATARI— by S. Roberts. You can use
the ATARI 400 and 800 to create graphics and almost any
sound effect— important features when programming
computer games. General discussions include drawing
figures on the screen, making figures on the screen
move and programming the joystick. A variety of game
programs are also given as examples. BK1282 $7.95

the custom tipple

A.-OTHI KVWY-I

MICROBOOK: DATA BASE MANAGEMENT FOR THE
APPLE II — by Ted Lewis This book provides you with
an affordable data base management system for your
Apple II. These programs turn your Apple II into a com-
bination filing cabinet, information gathering/retrieval
system and data processing engine. Written in Pascal,
the program simulate a library. Information is main-
tained and broken down into books, chapters and
pages and index to pages. Photographs of the Apple II
screen are abundant, and they show you step-by-step
the effect of each of your entries. Microbook can be
used for almost any application involving the storage
and retrivial of information. BK1261 $19.95

APPLE GRAPHICS AND ARCADE GAME DESIGN— by

Jeffrey Stanton The only book available that explains
how to design arcade games from start to finish
through the use of text, flow charts and working ex-
amples. Learn how to speed up your graphics, and the
theory of how to design a playable game. This book re-
quires a solid foundation in BASIC programming on
the Apple II. BK1259 $19.95

THE APPLE CONNECTION— by James W. Coffron
Connect your Apple to household applicances for
greater control. With this book you will learn about
elementary interfacing and about BASIC program-
ming, including input/output techniques and devices,
building real systems, and even analog to digital and
digital to analog conversion. All programs are written
in BASIC and no prior electronic knowledge is re-
quired. BK1262 $12.95

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UCSD PASCAL

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THE CUSTOM APPLE AND OTHER MYSTERIES-by

Winifred Hofacker and Ekkehard Floegel. This is the
guide to customizing Apple software and hardware, pub
lished by the folks at IJ6 It contains such hands on infor
mation such as: data acquisition and control applica
tions. Programming the 6522 Internal timer. Construct
ing the 6522 I/O board. An Eprom Burner for the Apple
Computer. An Eprom/RAM board. The Apple Slot Re
peater. and much, much more. BK1246 $24.95.

THE APPLE II USER'S GUIDE— By Lon Poole, Martin
McNiff, and Steven Cook This guide is the key to
unlocking the full power of your Apple II or Apple II
Plus. Topics include: "Applesoft and Integer BASIC
Programming"— especially how to make the best use
of Apple's sound, color and graphics capabilities.
"Machine Level Programming," "Hardware Features"
—which covers the disk drive and printer, and "Ad-
vanced Programming"— describing high resolution
graphics techniques and other advanced applications.
Well organized and easy to use. BK1220 $17.95

SOME COMMON BASIC PROGRAMS, APPLE II EDI-
TION— by Lon Poole et al. A powerful collection of fi-
nancial, statistical, home management and mathemat-
ics programs — 76 in all — Each program is presented
with BASIC source code, operating instructions and
descriptions. If you're a beginning programmer you
can learn from this book what well designed and
documented programs look like. BK1232 $16.95

PROGRAMMING THE 6502 (Third Edition) By Rodnay
Zaks — Has designed a self-contained text to learn pro-
gramming, using the 6502. It can be used by a person
who has never programmed before, and should be of
value to anyone using the 6502. The many exercises
will allow you to test yourself and practice the con-
cepts presented. BK1 005 $13.95

LEARNING IBM BASIC FOR THE PERSONAL COM-
PUTER — by David A. Lien This is a comprehensive
how-to book that will help you get the most for your
IBM-PC. A completer BASIC tutorial, it puts your PC to
work while you learn BASIC. This has been written with
the beginner in mind and encourages learning in a
relaxed and enjoyable manner with its easy step-by-
step instructions. It's also a excellent text for the
classroom. BK1273 $19.95

THE BASIC HANDBOOK-SECOND EDITION — by
David Lien. This book is unique. It is a virtual
ENCYCLOPEDIA of BASIC. While not favoring one
computer over another, it explains over 250 BASIC
words, how to use them and alternate strategies. If a
computer does not possess the capabilities of a need-
ed or specified word, there are often ways to ac-
complish the same function by using another word or
combination of words. That's where the HANDBOOK
comes in. It helps you get the most from your com-
puter, be it a "bottom-of-the-line" micro or an oversized
monster. BK1 174 $19.95.*

INTRODUCTION TO PASCAL— by Rodnay Zaks A
step-by-step introduction for anyone wanting to learn
the language quickly and completely. Each concept is
explained simply and in a logical order. All features of
the language are presented in a clear, easy-to- .
understand format with exercises to test the reader at
the end of each chapter. It describes both standard
PASCAL and UCSD PASCAL — the most widely used
dialect for small computers. No computer or program-
ming experience is necessary. BK 1189 $16.95 *

PROGRAMMING IN PASCAL— by Peter Grogono. A
NEW REVISED EDITION. The computer programming
language PASCAL was the first language to embody in
a coherent way the concepts of structured program-
ming, which has been defined by Edsger Dijkstra and
C.A.R. Hoare. As such, it is a landmark in the develop-
ment of programming languages. PASCAL was devel-
oped by Niklaus Wirth in Zurich; it is derived from the
language ALGOL 60 but is more powerful and easier to
use. PASCAL is now widely accepted as a useful lan-
guage that can be efficiently implemented, and as an
excellent teaching tool. It does not assume knowledge
of any other programming language; it is therefore
suitable for an introductory course. BK1140 $12.95.*

PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

INSIDE LEVEL II— For machine language program-
mers. This is a comprehensive reference guide to the
Level II ROMs, allowing easy utilization of the
sophisticated routines they contain. It concisely ex-
plains set-ups, calling sequences, variable passage
and I/O routines. Part II presents an entirely new com-
posite program structure which unloads under the
SYSTEM command and executes in both BASIC and
machine code with the speed and efficiency of a com-
piler. Special consideration is given to disk systems.
BK1 183 $15.95.*

PROGRAMMING THE Z-80— by Rodnay Zaks Here is
assembly language programming for the Z-80 present-
ed as a progressive, step-by-step course. This book is
both an educational text and a self-contained
reference book, useful to both the beginning and the
experienced programmer who wish to learn about the
Z-80. Exercises to test the reader are included. BK1 122
$16.95 *

Z-80 ASSEMBLY LANGUAGE PROGRAMMING-by

Lance A. Leventhal. This book thoroughly covers the
Z-80 instruction set, abounding in simple programming
examples illustrating software development concepts
and actual assembly language usage. Features in-
clude Z-80 I/O devices and interfacing methods, as-
sembler conventions, and comparisons with 8080A/
8085 instruction sets and interrupt structure.
BK1 177 $18.95

M
I

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R

C
O

Z-80M
P

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I

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68000/6809

68000 MICROPROCESSOR HANDBOOK— By Gerry
Kane. Whether you're currently using the 68000, plan-
ning to use it, or simply curious about one of the
newest and most powerful microprocessors, this
handbook has all the answers. A clear presentation of
signal conversions, timing diagram conventions, func-
tional logic, three different instruction set tables, ex-
ception processing, and family support devices pro-
vides more information about the 68000 than the manu-
facturer's data sheets. A stand alone reference book
which can also be used as a supplement to An Intro-
duction to Microcomputers: Vol. 2 — Some Real Micro-
processors. BK1216$9.95

68000 ASSEMBLY LANGUAGE PROGRAMMING— by

Gerry Kane, et al. A straightforward self teaching text
book on assembly language programming for the 68000
microprocessor. This book contains the entire instruc-
tion set, describes the function of assemblers and
assembly instructions and discusses basic software
development concepts. A large number of practical pro-
gramming examples are included. BK1233 $ 18.95

B
O
O

K
S

FOR TOLL FREE ORDERING CALL 1-800-258-5473

Microcomputing, September 1983 117

Circle 277 on Reader Service card SIXTH ANNIVERSARY SALE!

NOT JUST AN ORDINARY SALE! WE HAVE SLASHED PRICES TO THE BONE AS OUR WAY OF THANKING

YOU, OUR VALUED CUSTOMERS FOR 6 YEARS OF LOYALTY. WE'VE CONTINUOUSLY GROWN AND EXPANDED BY

OFFERING YOU THE BEST VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY WITH THE BEST AFTER-SALE SUPPORT

CPU DOARDS

68 K - 66000 16 DIT CPU

u> tut H Di 1(1 MM/ on baud sockets loi 2716 2732 n .VM

l PKOMs toi up to UK x tt> oi memory

KU6BT184A

KU6BT1B4C

OtscrlptlM

AM 8MH/
CSC 10MH/

Part No Dascriatlaa Utt Prlca Oar Prlca

RU6BT1MA AM 8MH; $695 00 |51 2.95

KUGBT1B4C CSC 10MH/ $850 00 $765.00

CP/M 66K NOW AVAILABLE!!
FORTH OPERATING SYSTEM INCLUDED

Now CompuPro and Dtgrtal Researctl tutng you CP/M tor the 68000 Also
included is the FORTH Orjeutinq System which requires ,i DISK I 64Ko4
Compupro memory «itxi an in If RFACER 3 or 4

KUSBTCP6M6H 68000 CP/M & K)RTH 0/S

$350 00

CO-PROCESSOR 6066/6067

16 bit 8 or 10 MHz 8086 CPU with sockets for 8087 and 80136

KU6BT186A A&T 8MHz 8086 only $ 750.00 $494.95

KU6BT186C CSC 10MHz 8086 only $850.00 $764.89

KUGBT188A87 A&T with 8087 option $1050.00 $930.00

KUGBT186C87 CSC with 8087 option* $1150.00 $1085.00

•8087 Limits clock speed to 5 MHz

DUAL PROCESSOR 6065-6066

6 or 8 MHz provides true 16 Bit Power with a standard 8 bit S-100 bus

IU6BT16I2A
KU6BT1812C

A&T6MHZ
CSC 6/8 MHz

$495.00
$595.00

|31197

$497.87

CPUZ - Z60D CPU NOW 6MHz!

3/6 MHz Z80B CPU with 24 Bit Addressing.
FASTEST ZSO CPU AVAILABLE!

KUGBT160A
IUGBT160C

3/6 MHz A&T
3/6 MHz CSC

$32500 $228.05

$425.00 $374.87

DISK CONTROLLERS

DISK 1 DMA FLOPPY CONTROLLER

Fast DMA, Soft Sector, Controls Up to Four 8" or 5V<r Single or
Double Density Drives!

KUPB6171 ACPM A&T w/CPM 2 2* & BIOS $670.00

When purchased w/two 8" disk drives only

KUGBT171CCPM CSC w/CP/M 2.2* & BIOS $770 00

$480.00

$450.00

$515.00

$308.05

$550.00

$148.95

KUGBT171A Disk 1 Controller A&T $495 00

KUGBT171C Disk 1 Controller CSC $595.00

KUGBTCPM80 CP/M 2.2* for Z80/8085 w/manual &

BIOS 8" S/D disk
KUGBTCPM88 CP/M 2.2* for 8086 w/manuals & BIOS $258.95

8" S/D disk

DISK 2/SELECTOR CHANNEL

HARD DISK CONTROLLER

Fast DMA 2 board set controls 4 Shugart 4000 series or Fujitsu 2300
type drives. Includes CP/M 2.2*.

KUGBT177A
KUGBT177C

Assembled & Tested
CSC

$795.00
$895.00

S58879T

$850.00

M-DRIVE/H HARDWARE LOGICAL DISK SYSTEM

Interfaces through two 1/0 ports, and runs at 10MHz IEEE 696 compatible.

Requires any CompuPro CPU and a DISK 1 Each board contains 51 2K of

fast low power (900mA) RAM, with parity checking.

KU6BT1B7A M-DRIVE/H w/software. A&T $1895.00
KUGBT197C M-DRIVE/H w/software, CSC $2095.00

1249.00
1495.00

STATIC RAM

RAM 17 - 64K CMOS STATIC RAM

12 MHz, RAM 17, 2 Watt DMA Compatible 24 Bit Addressing

KU6BT175A64
KU6BT175C64

64K A&T 12MHz
64KCSC 12MHz

$499.00
$599.00

$480.00
$550.00

RAM 16 - 02K x 16 NT CMOS STATIC RAM

8 and/or 16 Bit 12 MHz, RAM 16, 32K x 16 or 64K x 8 IEEE/696
16 Bit 2 Watt, 24 Bit Addressing, 12 MHz

KUGBT180A 64KA&T12MHZ $550 00 $510.00

KU6BT180C 64K CSC 12MHz $65000 $610.00

RAM 21 - 126K STATIC RAM

816 RAM 21 12MHz, 128K x 8 or 64K x 16 IEEE/696
8 or 16 Bit, 1.2 Amps, 24 Bit Addressing, 12 MHz

IUGBT190A
KU6BT190C

128K A&T
128KCSC

$1095.00 $858.95
$1245.00 $1125.00

I/O DOARDS

SYSTEM SUPPORT 1 MULTIFUNCTION DOARD

Serial port (software prog, baud), 4K RAM included, 15 levels of
interrupt real time clock, optional math processor.

Part Na.

DascrlpHea

Ust Price

KU8BT182A

RU6BT162C

RU8BT8231

RU6BTB232

KU6BT162AN1

KUGBT162CM1

RU6BT1S2A6B

IUGBT182CH2

Assembled & Tested

CSC

Math Chip

A&T w/8231 Math Chip

CSC w/8231 Math Chip

A&T w/8232 Math Chip

CSC w/8232 Math Chip

$450.00
$550.00

$645.00
$745.00
$645.00
$745.00

Bar Price

$308.95
8485.00
$105.00
$195.00

$538.95
$670.00

$538.95
$870.89

MPX CHANNEL DOARDS

1/0 Multiplexer, using 8085A-2 CPU on board w/16K RAM

KUGBT166A18
KUGBT188C16

Assembled & Tested
CSC

INTERFACER 1

Two Serial I/O

$649.00 $584.89
$749.00 $674.89

RU6BT133A

KUGBT133C

Assembled & Tested
CSC

$295.00 $198.95
$370.00 $326.00

KUGBT150A
KU6BT150C

KUGBT1748A
KUGBT1748C
KU6BT1745A
KUBBT1745C

INTERFACER 2

Three parallel, one serial I/O board

$325.00 $240.00
$399.00 $358.00

Assembled & Tested
CSC

INTERFACER 3

Eight-channel multi-user serial 1/0 board

Assembled & Tested
CSC 200 hr. 8 port
Assembled & Tested
CSC 200 hr. 5 port

$699 00 $518.95

$849.00 $746.86

$599.00 $448.95
$699.00 $628.88

RUGBT187A
RU6BT187C

INTERFACER 4

Three Serial, 1 Parallel, 1 Centronics Parallel

$450.00 $314.87
$540.00 $414.87

Assembled & Tested
CSC

S-100 MOTHERBOARDS

Active Termination, 6-12-20 Slot

KUGBT153A
KU6BT153C
KU6BT154A
KUGBT154C
KU6BT155A
KU6BT155C

A&T 6 slot (2 lbs.)
CSC 6 slot (2 lbs.)
A&T 12 slot (3 lbs.)
CSC 12 slot (3 lbs.)
A&T 20 slot (4 lbs.)
CSC 20 slot (4 lbs.)

$140.00
$190.00
$175.00
$240.00
$265.00
$340.00

$125.00

$155.66
$155.00

$226.66
$235.00

$316.66

California Computer Systems

Z60 CPU 2 or 4MHz

On board RS232 Serial port, On board 2K Monitor, ROM, Power on

jump to any location in 64 K, LED status indicators for ROM select,

half state and interrupts.

$325.00 $258.95

KUCCS2810A

Z80A4MHzCPU A&T

CCS271901

RUCCS271601

2 Serial, 2 Parallel, A&T
CCS27201

$360.00 $288.95

KUCCS272001

4 Port Parallel, A&T

CCS271001

$275.00 $218.85

KUCCS271001

4 Port Serial, A&T

CCS2600

$325.00 $278.95

KUCCS283001 Assembled & Tested

$550.00 $428.85

CCS206601

64K Dynamic S-100 RAM Cromemco CR0MIX m Compatible

KUCCS208601

Assembled & Tested $450.00 $425.66

CCS2422A

Floppy disk controller w/CP/M 2.2®

$475.00 $338.95

KUCCS2422A Assembled & Tested

105

2 Serial, 3 Parallel S-100 Interface

Pirt Na.

Dtscrlpttaa

Utt Price 6ar Price

KUSSMI65A Assembled & Tested

$329.00 $268.85

106

8 Port Serial 1/0 S-100 Board

KUSSMI08A

Assembled & Tested

$550.00 $450.00

104

2 Serial. 2 Parallel I/O S-100 Board

KUSSMI04A

Assembled & Tested

$290.00 $245.00

2706/2716 EPROM PROGRAMMER 6 EPROM DOARD

Programs 2708 and 2716 EPROMs. Holds 4 2708s (4 K) or 4 271 6s (8K)

KUSSMB8A

Assembled & Tested

$265.00 $216.87

DUAL.

NON VOLATILE CMOS RAMS

8, 16, or 32 K 8 or 16 Bit Data. Battery Backup On Board 6 MHz,

Bank Selectable

KUDULCMEM8 8K A&T
KUDULCMEM16 16KA&T
KUDULCMEM32 32K A&T

$49500 $456.66
$595.00 $550.00
$695.00 $650.00

256K DYNAMIC MEMORY

256K, 230 ns access time, 2 x 128K organization, 24 bit addressing

parity error detection

KUDULDMEM250K Assembled & Tested $1295.00 $1165.00

32/64K EPROM DOARD

8 or 16 bit data, holds 2716s (32 K). or 2732s (64 K)

KU0ULEPR0BW2 For 2716s A&T
KUDULEPR6N64 For 2732s A&T

$295.00 $275.66
$295.00 $275.66

A/D CONVERTER

12 Bit Resolution 16 or 32 Channel Input

KUDU LAIN 12
KUDULAIM12B

Assembled & Tested
Without instru. Amp

$69500 $625.66
$645.00 $568.66

D/A CONVERTER

4 Channel, 12 Bit 3 Output Modes

KU0ULA0M12 Assembled & Tested

$69500 $618.65

RUS0SSBC

KUSBSCP9I

KUSBSTURB0S

KUS0STURB0M

RVRICP12231

sierra nam sciences

S-100 SDC DOARD

Z80A 4 MHz, 2 Serial RS232 interfaces, 1 parallel interlace, 64K RAM,

Floppy Disk Controller, provisions for one 2732 EPROM —
ALL ON THIS ONE BOARD!'

Z80A SBC A&T $895.00 $855.00

CP/M* perating System on 8" disk SI 50.00

Single User TurboDos'" on 8" disk $450.00

Multi-User TurboDos'" on 8" disk $750.00

36 MByte Hard Disk(45lbs) $3695.00 $3250.00

S-100 Z60A SLAVE SDC

Z80A 4 MHz, 2 RS232 Serial ports, 4 parallel ports, 64 K RAM, EPROM

Programmer. Used in multi-user computer system with SDSSBC.
KUSOSSBCSE Slave Z80 SBC A&T $82500 $505.00

.a"*""*..

Q MICRO inn. i want

Intercontinental
Micro Systems

Z80A DMA SDC & Z80D SLAVES

8-100 IEEE/696 COMPATIBLE - 1 YEAR WARRANTY!

CPZ-46OO0 FEATURES:

• 4MHz Z80A.64K RAM

• Floppy disk personality card
included for 5V4" or 8"
floppy disk drives

• RS232 personality card included

• Two serial - two parallel l/0s

SLAVE PROCESSOR

• Z80 4 or 6MHz CPU (specify
at time of order)

• Two serial - two parallel l/0s

• 64K RAM

• TURBODOS compatible

List Pries SALE PRICE

KUICMCr74M0U
KBICRICPZ4S66M
RBICBB66MB

KBICBTCPS4X

RBICMCP86X

RBICBMS232

RBICHCERTB

R6ICRBF8C

EBIC0BF6C

RBICMCLECAL

SBC for 8" floppy $995 00 $885.80

SBC for 5 V floppy $995 00 $886.88

256 KByte RAM $995 00 $888.80

Z80A Slave 4MHz $475.00 $440.68

Z80B Slave 6MHz $550.00 $486.66

RS232 Personality Card $ 28.66

Centronics Parallel Personality Card $ 28.86

8" Floppy Disk Personality Card $ 38.66

5V Floppy Disk Personality Card $ 33.66

Clock Calendar $ 44 00

RETAIL STORE PHONE NUMBERS: (Chats worth:) C213) 709-5464 - (IRVINE:) (714) 660-1411

Circle 277 on Reader Service card rflf UH I I I ^J #V C #W N U IwS B tZ ES 1 I

OTHERS COME AND GO. WHILE WE HAVE BECOME THE LARGEST MAIL-ORDER DISTRIBUTOR IN THE MICRO-
COMPUTER INDUSTRY. ORDER WITH CONFIDENCE. WHEN YOU HAVE A QUESTION, WE'LL BE HERE NEXT WEEK, NEXT

MONTH AND NEXT YEAR! WE'RE NUMBER 1 AND STILL TRYING HARDER!

SIEMENS FDD100-6

8 FLOPPY DISK DRIVE

SINGLE SIDED, DOUBLE DENSITY
SHUGART 801 R COMPATIBLE

90 DAY WARRANTY!

ONCE AGAIN, YOU RECEIVE THE
BENEFIT OF OUR UNEQUALLED
PURCHASING ,jJk

POWER!

$175.00

each

OEM INQUIRIES INVITED

(Include $7 00 per drive for shipping)
X U SI E FDD 1008

ORDER NOW AND SAVE!

STATIC RAM SALE!

IEEE/696 SI 00 ULTRA LOW POWER!

NEW! 256 K RAM 22

• 12MH/ • Fully st.itu dsiqn • 24 bil extended addressing • 8 or 16
bit d.H.i • Fully DMA < omp.itible • Assembled & Tested

$1595.00 each

KUGBT19SA

$1550.00 each

When you buy 2 or more!

128KRAM21 12 MHz

$695.00 each

KUGBTRAM21

$650.00 each

When you buy 2 or more

64KRAM 17 10MHz

24 BIT ADDRESS 64K 8 BIT

KU6BTRAM17 list Price $4<)<M)0

BUY IT NOW FOR ONLY:

$299.00 II

RAM16 64K6 DIT

or02K16 DIT

10 MHz 24 BIT ABBBESS

KMBTMN16 List Price: $550.00

BUY IT NOW FOR ONLY:

BUY DRIVE & CABINET
TOGETHER AND SAVE!!

DUAL 8" SIEMENS FDD 1008

DUAL 8" CABINET POWER SUPPLY

AND INTERNAL POWER CABLES

(Include $30 00 for shipping)

Positive Pressure Filter Cooling
Power Supply 4A<a+5V. 3A(a+24V

1 A Co) -5V
Each output is individually fused

Hinged to for easy access

Heavy non-flex 090 aluminum

base

Modular power connectors

IF BOUGHT SEPARATELY: $890.00

ANNIVERSARY SALE PRICE:

i (Include $30.00 for shipping)

KUIIIFDE002 CABINET ONLY (Sh Wt 38 lbs) $295. OO

E9 pa^roCALCULTAORS &

HANDHELD COMPUTERS

Description

List Price Our Price

KU HP-10C Scientific (3 lbs.) $70.00 $51.00

KU HP-11C Adv. Scientific (3 lbs.) $ 90.00 $ 70.00

KUMP-12C Financial (3 lbs.) $120.00 $00.00

KUNM5C Adv. Science/Matrix (3 lbs.) $120.00 $00.00

KU HP-16C Digital/Computer Sci (3 lbs.) $120.00 $00.00

KU NM1C Handheld Computer (5 lbs.) $195.00 $150.00

KUNM1CV Handheld w/5x Memory (5 lbs.) $275.00 $210.00

KU HP-75C Portable Computer (9 lbs.) $995 00 $705.00

FLOPPY DISKETTES

FEATURES: D^'

• Includes reinforcement ring

• 100% Surface tested

ULTRA

;N SlTY'

• Write protect with tabs

• Lifetime warranty!

SINGLE SIDED

40 TRACKS — 1 BOX
DOUBLE DENSITY OF 10:

ORDERING INFORMATION
KUULT51401 Soft Sector
KUULT51410 10 Sector
KUULT51410 16 Sector

KUULT52401
KUULT52410
KUULT52410

BOXES:

10
BOXES:

$ 25.00
$ 40.00

$180.00

Soft sector, 40 track, 2 sided
10 sector, 40 track, 2 sided
16 sector, 40 track, 2 sided

1 BOX OF 10 2 BOXES

10 BOXES

$35.00 $60.00 $280.00

Sh. Wt 2lbs

Sh Wt 4lbs

Sh Wt 20lbs

PRIORITY

MODEMS

$379.00

£■

is*

NEW!

PASSWORD
1200 BAUB
AUT8 DIAL!

Utt Pric« SALE PRICE

U.S. ROBOTICS

Part ■•■ DucrtpMM

KUUSRPASSWUR0 1 200 baud Auto Orig/ Answer $449.00 $370.00
KUUSRADIAL212A 1 200 baud Auto Orig/Answer $599.00 $495.00

79.00

159.00

09.00

175.00

399.00

Password Comm. Software 8" CP/M
Password Comm. Software 5 W Apple

$179.00

$449.00
$219.00
$499.00

KUUSRTELPACf
KUUSRTELPACSA

KUUSRMLNK300 Micro Link 300 Baud
KUUSRMLNK1200 Micro Link 1200 Baud
KUUSRALNK300 Auto Link 300 Baud
KUUSRALNK1200 Auto Link 1200 Baud

(Shipping Weights on above items: 4 lbs. each)

SEE PAGE 194 OP THE JULY ISSUE OP BYTE

POR MORE INFORMATION

WXON 1200 BAUD AUTO DIAL

DIRECT CONNECT MODEMS WITH 10 NUMBER MEMORY

KURIXR212A
KUMXPC212A
KURIXPCC0M1
KUP0BRIXIBM

1200 Baud Stand Alone unit $495.00 $475.00

1200 IBM PC" modem (2 lbs.) $495.00 $475.00

IBM PC" Modem Software (1 lb.) $ 89.00

IBM Modem & Software Together (3 lbs.) 5539.00

SEE PAGE 445 OF THE JULY ISSUE OP BYTE
POR MORE INFORMATION

D.C HAYES

514.95
P29.00
1199.00
349.00

5299.00

KUDCH0400P 1200 Baud Smartmodem $695.00
KUDCH0200P 300 Baud Smartmodem $279.00

KUDCN0300P Chronograph $249.00

KU0CN0100P MicroModem 100 $399.00

KUDCH0000P MicroModem II $379.00

(Shipping Weights on above items 4 lbs each)

MURA DIRECT CONNECT MODEM
300 BAUB

• RS232C interface • Full duplex • Carrier detect indicator • Bell
1 03 compatible • Low voltage • Originate/Answer switch selectable
Utt Prict Hr Prict

KUMURMM100 - 300 baud modem (2 lbs.) $99.95 $79.00
KUCNDR2320F RS232 cable $10.05

THE

n LEMON™
SOURS SURGES!

I i I i I i

• • •

Part No.

AC SURGE PROTECTORS

Description List Price

List Price Oar Price

KUEPDLEM0N 6 outlet wall mount $59 95

KUEPDLIME 6 outlet AV?" cord 89 50

w/power switch

(Shipping Weight 4 lbs each)

►69 95

EMI-RF1 FILTERED AC SURGE PROTECTOR

KUEP00RAN6E 6 outlet AW cotd $139 95 $104.95

w/power switch
KUEPDPEACH 6 outlet wall mount $97 50 $ 74.95

(Shipping Weight 4 lbs t:,i(.h)

ELECTRONICS

MasterCard

9161 Deenng Ave,. Chotswor th. CA 01311
ORDER TOLL FREE (800) 423-5922 - CA. AK. HI CALL (213) 709-51 1 1

Terms US VISA MC. BAC, Check. Money Order. US rounds Only CA residents add6V?% Sales Tax MINIMUM PREPAID ORDER $1S00 Include MINIMUM SHIP-
PING & HANDLING of $3 00 for the first 3 lbs plus 40C for each additional pound Orders over 50 lbs sent freight collect Just in case, please include your phone
number Prices subject to change without notice We will do our best to maintain prices through September, 1 983 Many quantities are limited Sony, no rainchecks. no
refunds or exchanges on sale merchandise Credit Card orders will be charged appropriate freight. Sale prices for prepaid orders only We are not responsible for typo-
graphical errors

RETAIL STORE PHONE NUMBERS: (Chats worth:) C213) 709-5464 - (IRVINE:) (714) 660-1411

SgWCORO 2910 B E. La Palma

COMPUTER Anaheim, Ca. 92806

(714)

seod $ 1PO

632-6790 ca r «3 l09

VtSA

CHECK- M

10.MIN ORDER/ CARES ADD 6% NO P.O. BOX

SHIPMENTSl
ALLOW 2WKS OEL Y IF
KIM.L CHECK IS SEIT store Hours

reight

I* 10 -49 -**2P0 1 $250-499 —*9oo
50-99^400 500-999^11°°
100-240^8°° 1000- UP— Call

| Weekdays

10 to 6pm.

[Saturday ,_ _

10to3pmJ

Diskette SALE!!

"Wabash"

5 1 * 8nch
S$/SD $ /75D % 21.00

2tenp^s 15Po a ispo^

^'/DO' 26.00 '28.00
DS/DD 31.00 35.00

[qi^Y; price avail |

Authorized Wabash Dist.

Bare Bones APPLE II

EURO i " ,f ^"- "

Keyboard

48K RAM

Pwr. Supply

Micros witch
Keyboard

$75.00

Power Supply : APPLE

w/ Purchase : Reference Man I

$75.00 : *18.oo

REAL-TIME CLOCK
CALENDAR ( MSM 5832)

*6.45

V/SPfCi

XTAL
*1.50

MONITORS
BMC # BM-12AUW

12in 15MHz /GREEN Phos

* 94.00
lc£*ra-12N

12in 18 MHz /GREEN Phos.
Non- Glare Screen $ 114 00

ic^KG-12NUY

12m 18 MHz /AMBER Phos.

Non- Glare Screen | 124 00

BMC^BM- AU9i91U

13in. XOLOR"

$ 324.00

DISK DRIVE FOR APPLE ! !

• metal cabinet "SUM LINE"

• 35 track

• with contcard

♦345.00

D.C.Hayes

Micromottom II — *310.00

MSB

Sm~tmo<tam — »24S00
SOOBaud

Micromodem 100 — *36S00

IC MASTER

2 Vo«S

H2.95

SYSTEM SAVER R>r apple

•Power AC Filter
• Mounts Outside

$73.95

BORDER UNEit

(800) 435 -0907

(Outside Calif )
Please use for Ordering ! !

BMC "HALF HIGH

• Apple compat. Drive
•Control card

$325.00

"DATA FAX"

A computerized filing
system using database
programming.

$ 159.00

(APPLE)

Diskette Storage BOX

5^in.v 5/ : Bin 5/
♦2 506a' $10.00: $3 «r $15.00

SPECIALS

2764— «- *12.50
21141 2— 8 / $ 13.95

UPD 765-^2495

78H05— - *5.95

(5 amp 5v.)

Flip & File

Disk Storage Box !
Holds 50 Diskettes

5V 4 - *lft95
8 - *2i95

TEXTOOL'

-^ Z . I . F. ^

16pin
24pin

$635
^7.95

Power Supply for apple

v,< 5-3.5a
12- 2.0a %

-5- 500ma 79.50

-12- 500ma

7400

RAN A Systems Apple Drive'

$395P° w/ Controller
$325 PO w/o Controller

COMPONENTS

741SOO
74LS02
741S03
74LS04
74LS05
74LS08
74LS09
74LS10
74LS11
74LS12
74LS13
74LS14
74LS1S
74LS20
74LS21
741S22
74LS26
74LS27
74LS28
74LS30
74LS32
74LS33
74LS37
74LS38
74LS42
74LS48
74LS49
74LS51
74LS54

74S

74SOO
74S02
74S03
74S04
74S05
74S08
74S09
74S10
74S11
74S15
74S20
74S22
74S30

RAMS

2016 200NS
2101

EPROMS

19 7430

19 7432

19 7437

19 7438
24 7440
48 7442

24 7443

20 7444

20 7445

21 7447
21 7448
45 7450

25 7451
18 7454
29 7472
29 7474
29 7475
45 7476

7480

24 74LS55
24 74LS73

26 74LS74
32 741 S75
28 74LS76
28 74LS78
28 74LS83
26 74LS85
35 74LS86
35 74LS90
45 741S91
55 74LS92
35 74LS93

24 74LS95

25 74LS96
24 74LS107

26 74LS109
28 74LS112
35 74LS113
24 74LS1 14

27 74LS122
50 74LS123
35 74LS125
32 74LS126
55 74LS132
75 74LS133
75 74LS136

24 74LS137

25 74LS138

30 74S32
30 74S37
30 74S38
35 74S50
30 74S51
30 74S64
35 74S65
35 74S74
35 74S85
35 74S86
35 74S112
35 74S124
30 74S132

4 10 2102
1 95 2111

1702
2708
4708

Z80

Z80CPU
Z80CTC

3 95
3 95
3 55

2716

3 65 Z80PIO
6 25 Z80SIO/2

6500-6800

6402 6 9

6502 4 9

6522 6 9

6532 9 7

6800
6802
6809

17 7482

17 7485
21 7486
28 7489

18 7490
45 7491
60 7492

69 7493
60 7494
60 7495
60 74107
16 74109
18 741 10
16 74121
23 74122
31 74123
43 74125
33

25 74LS139
36 74LS145
45 74LS147
38 74LS148
38 74LS151
45 74LS153
55 74LS154
60 74LS155
35 74LS156
50 74LS157
85 74LS158
50 74LS160
50 74LS161

70 74LS162
89 74LS163
38 74LS164
38 74LS165
38 MLS166
38 74LS168
38 74LS189
45 74LS170
85 74LS173
45 74LS174
48 74LS175
58 74LS181
55 74LS190
38 74LS191
85 74LS192
50 73LS193

74S138
74S140
74S151
74S157
74S158
74S161
74S163
74S174
74S175
74S182
74S188
74S189

74126
74136
74141
74145
74148
74152
74153
74154
74155
74160
74161
74164
74165
74166
74173
74174
74175

74LS194
74LS195
74LS196
74LS197
74LS221
74LS240
74LS241
74LS242
74LS243
74LS244
74LS245
74LS247
74LS248
74LS249
74LS251
74LS253
74LS257
74LS258
74LS259
74LS260
74LS266
74LS273
74LS279
74LS280
74LS283
74LS290
74LS293
74LS295
74LS298

74S194
74S195
74S201
74S240
74S241
74S244
74S251
74S253
74S257
74S258
74S260
74S275

2114L2 185

4027 1 75

8S 41 16 200NS 8/1295

295 4116 1SONS 8/1495

4164200NS 625

74176
74177
74180
74182
74186
74190
74191
74192
74194
74195
74197
74221
74279
74293
74298
74367
74368
74393

74LS299
74LS323
74LS352
74LS353
74LS365
74LS366
74LS367
74LS368
74LS373
74LS374
74LS375
74LS377
74LS378
74US379
74LS386
74LS390
74LS393
74LS395
74LS399
74LS490
74LS623
74LS668
74LS669
74LS670
74LS683
74LS685
74LS687
74LS783

74S2S0 1 85

745287 1 85

745288 1 85

745289 6 7S
74S299 6 73

745373 2 4!

745374 2 4S
74S387 1 90
74S454 4 5C

745470 6 5C

745471 9 5C

745472 95C
74S474 9 5(1

4164 1 SONS
5290

6116 200NS
6116 I50NS
SiOt BOONS

LINEAR

LM300H

LM301N

LM301M

LM307M

LM308AN

LM309K

LM310

LM311N

LM311H

LM317K

LM318H

LM322

LM323K

LM324

LM339

LM348

LM358

LM360

LM381

LM386

LM351

LM55S

LM558

LM585

LM566

LM703

LM709

LM710

LM711

LM720

LM723

LM733

LM741 8

LM741N 14

LM741H

LM747

LM775

1330

1349

1350

1358

1372

1458

1486

1489

1496

1689

4501

4558

VOLTAGE
REGULATORS

7805

7806 V

7808 X

7812

7818 85

7905

7908

7912

7918

3 95 2532

8 25

2732

4 75

2764
27643

Z60ACPU 4 95

Z80ACTC 6 85 Z80AWO 4 "

950
11 SO

Z80SIO

1550

395 6810

7 75 6821

12 50 6840

3 95 6845

3 00 6847

10 50 6850

12 50 6852
1 1 95 6860
3 25

120 Microcomputing, September 1983

Circle 297 on Reader Service card.

CLUB NOTES

IT EEflLER blRKTOKY^I

68OOO User's
Group — California

A 68000 Software User's
Group is forming in Encinitas.
Anyone interested in partici-
pating in this group should
contact Carl Cagan, 21 1 N. El
Camino Real. Suite 101C, En-
cinitas, CA 92024; 619-942-
0744.

CP/M Group-
Connecticut

The Connecticut CP/M
User's Group holds nontech-
nical meetings for business
and professional people on
the last Monday of each month
at 7 p.m. in the McCook Audi-
torium at Trinity College in
Hartford.

For more information, con-
tact Malcolm Roth, 62 Burn-
wood Drive, Bloomfield, CT
06002; 203-243-3063.

Boston Computer
Society

The Boston Computer So-
ciety, which contains many
special systems groups, pub-
lishes a monthly guide to
meetings and events. The edi-
tor is Mary E. McCann.

Inquiries about the Society
and its activities should be ad-
dressed to The Boston Com-
puter Society, Three Center
Plaza, Boston, MA 02108;
617-367-8080.

IBM PC Group —
Winnipeg

The IBM PC User's Group of
Winnipeg normally meets the
third Thursday evening of the
month. Two free copies of the
newsletter are sent to prospec-
tive members on application.

For details, write IBM PC
User's Group of Winnipeg, c/o
Business Development Inter-
national, PO Box 5, Station A,
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
R3K 1Z9.

New Jersey
Amateur Group

The Amateur Computer
Group of New Jersey publish-
es the monthly newsletter
ACG-NJ and maintains a
newsletter exchange program
with other computer clubs.
ACG-NJ is an umbrella for
many specific systems user's
groups in and around Union
and Middlesex Counties.

For information and mem-
bership applications, write
Amateur Computer Group of
New Jersey, PO Box 319,
South Bound Brook, NJ
08880.

Aloha 20/64 HAWAII

20/64 HAWAII is the name
of a new Commodore 64 and
VIC-20 club. The group is non-
profit and has no connection
with any computer outlet.

The club's focus is on edu-
cational aspects and stresses
family participation. It hopes
eventually to offer a wide vari-
ety of educational public do-
main software. Address all in-
quiries to the Secretary, Wes
Goodpaster, 20/64 HAWAII,
PO Box 966, Kailua, HI
96734.

Connecticut Micro
Decision Group

The Connecticut Micro De-
cision User's Group (CMDUG)
has recently been formed for
anyone using or interested in
the Micro Decision computer.

Meetings are held the sec-
ond Wednesday evening of
each month; a quarterly
newsletter will be included
with membership. For details,
write CMDUG, attention:
Dave Mintie, c/o MBS Com-
puter Systems, 266 Boston
Post Road, Orange, CT 06477.

Commodore Group
In Houston

The Commodore Houston

Woodbridge, CT

RIP-SOFT! New game spoofs com-
puter bizz. Break the 'calc habit-
IBM PC software — See how — Open
Basic — Program catalog — Program-
mer's toolbox— Utilities and fun.
People Systems, Ltd., 78 Ma-
plevale Drive, Woodbridge, CT
06525; 393-3913.

Nokomis, FL

We are the leading area computer
store. We carry Cromemco, Apple,
Vector Graphic; printers and termi-
nals. We offer full software support
including G/L, A/R, payroll and
word processing. Computer Cen*
tre, 909 S. Tamiami Trail, PO
Box 130, Nokomis, FL 33555.
484-0421.

Aurora, IL

Full line of Apple Computer and
Fortune Computer, Hewlett-Pack-
ard Personal Computers, Calcula-
tors and Supplies. IDS Prism, SMC
and Daisywriter Printers. Farns-
worth Computer Center, 1891
North Farns worth Ave., Auro-
ra, IL 60505 (85 1-3888) and 383
East North Ave., Villa Park, IL
60181 (833-7100).

Aurora, IL

DYSAN Diskettes, Authorized
Dealer. We also supply many name
brand computers, terminals, print-
ers, software <St accessories. All at
discount. Call for pricing. Fox Val-
ley Computer Systems, Sales
Order Dept., 1745 Jericho
Road, Aurora, IL 60506;
859-0304.

Milford, NH

SAGE 68000 microcomputer autho-
rized dealer. Service, custom pro-
gramming, consultation, terminals,
printers, etc. Write for special low,
low prices. You'll be glad you did!
New Castle Electronics, 100
Christian Hill Road, #3, Mil-
ford, NH 03055. 673-2806 or
673-9667.

Dealers: Listings are $15 per
month in prepaid quarterly pay-
ments, or one yearly payment of
$150, also prepaid. Ads include 25
words describing your products and
services plus your company name,
address and phone. (No area codes
or merchandise prices, please.) Call
Marcia at 603-924-9471 or write Mi-
crocomputing, Ad Department, Peter-
borough, NH 03458.

CUfQFIEDS

Clawified advertisement! arc intended tor use by persons desiring to buy, sell or trade used computer
equipment. No commercial ads are a c c epted .

Two sizes of ads are available. The $5 box allows up to 5 lines of about 35 characters per line, includ-
ing spaces and punctuation. The $10 box allows up to 10 lines. Minimize use of capital letters to save
space. No special layouts allowed. Payment is required in advance with ad copy. We cannot bill or ac-
cept credit.

Advertising text and payment must reach us 60 days in advance of publication (i.e., copy for March
issue, mailed in February, must be here by Jan. 1). The publisher reserves the nijht to refuse question-
able or inapplicable advertisements. Mail copy with payment to Classifieds, Microcomputing, Pe-
terborough, NH 03458. Do not include any other material with your ad as it may be delayed.

Kilobaud Microcomputing: Complete set, #1
to # 78 (June '83). $150; I ship. Rick Racine,
2520 S.E. Alexander, Topeka, KS 66605;
913-234-2707.

User's Group (CHUG) normal-
ly meets each month on the
University of Houston cam-
pus. A newsletter, Hardcopy,
comes with a membership
costing $18 ($10 for students).
For more information, con-
tact John Walker, president
and Hardcopy editor, 8738
Wildforest, Houston, TX
77088; 713-999-3650.

For Sale: Micro Term ACT-IVa, $275;
Sanyo 15" b/w video monitor, $150; Zenith
Z-19A terminal, $470; Sinclair ZX81, $28;
DEC MSV 11 -DD (64K byte Q-bus dual height
ram board), $250; DEC DLV11J (Q-bus 4
serial line board), w/cables, $320; Vadic
3400 modem, 1200 baud, full duplex, $395.
All perfect. 516-686-7890; 516-626-3919.

Used Heath H-8, S-100 BUS, and Wang
Laboratories computer for sale. Memory
board, I/O card, terminal, disk drive, soft-
ware and complete system. Ten to 50 percent
off list price. Send for free listing. D. Wong,
Box 406, Croton Falls, NY 10519.

For Sale: Sanders Printers: 2 Media 12/7
printers. Good condition. Used very little.
Tractor & sheet feeders, $1,800 ea. as is, or
$2,000 ea. with factory tune up. Bill Ken-
nedy. 217-287-7231. PO Box 38, Taylorville,
IL 62568.

Microcomputing, September 1983 121

CALENDAR

Sunbelt Expo — Phoenix

The third annual Sunbelt Computer Expo will be held Sep-
tember 8- 1 1 at the Civic Plaza in Phoenix, AZ. Featured will be
hardware, software and peripherals of interest to all sectors of
the public.

There will be over 100 seminars and also continuous hands-
on workshops sponsored by Atari and Radio Shack. For further
information, contact Judco Computer Expos, 800-528-2355 or,
from inside Arizona, 602-990-1715.

Australian Computer Conference

The tenth Australian Computer Conference is scheduled for
September 12-15 in Melbourne, Victoria. The conference will
deal in depth with virtually every area of computer application
and management.

For details, write Professor A.Y. Montgomery, 10 ACC, PO
Box 4063, Mail Exchange Melbourne, Victoria, 3001 Australia;
telephone (03) 4 1 6220.

Peripherals '83 — San Francisco

The exhibition Peripherals '83 has been re-scheduled from
Boston to San Francisco, and will be held September 13-15 in
the Moscone Center.

Information can be obtained from Cahners Exposition Group,
Cahners Plaza, 1350 E. Touhy Ave., PO Box 5060, Des Plaines,
IL 60018; 312-299-9311.

Software Show — Chicago

SOFTWARE/expo, an exhibit and conference for packaged
software, will be held September 13- 15 at McCormick Place in
Chicago. For further information, contact Mark Weber, Profes-
sional Exposition Management Co., Inc., Suite 205, 2400 East
Devon Ave., Des Plaines, IL 60018: 800-323-5155 or, from Illi-
nois. 312-299-3131.

ICC — Newton, Massachusetts

The 1983/84 series of the Invitational Computer Conference
(ICC) begins on September 13 at the Marriott Hotel in Newton,
MA. The ICCs are one-day regional conferences directed to a se-
lect audience of volume buyers. The conferences feature dis-
plays of operating equipment, and technical seminars are held.

Attendance is by invitation. If interested, write or call Susan
Fitzgerald, the Conference Manager, at B.J. Johnson & Associ-
ates, 3151 Airway Ave., *C-2, Costa Mesa, CA 92626;
714-957-0171.

Mini/Micro-Midwest— Illinois

The Midwest edition of Mini/Micro will take place September
13-15 in connection with Midcon/83 at the O'Hare Exposition
Center in Rosemont, IL.

For further information, call Jerry Fossler, 213-772-2965.

Federal Computer Conference — DC

The sixth annual Federal Computer Conference will take
place September 13-15 in the Washington Convention Center,

122 Microcomputing, September 1983

Washington, DC. In addition to the program of presentations
and workshops, there will be a large exposition of ADP
equipment, systems and services on the second and third days.
For more information, contact Federal Education Programs,
PO Box 368, Wayland, MA 01778; 800-225-5926 from outside
Massachusetts; 617-358-5181 from within Massachusetts.

Euromicro 83 — Madrid

Euromicro 83, the ninth annual symposium on micropro-
cessing and microprogramming, will take place in Madrid on
September 14-16. The purpose is to bring together people from
business, industry, government and academia who are
interested in the problems and applications of microcomputer
systems.

For further details, write Euromicro, T.H. Twente, PO Box
217, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands.

Computer Expo — Indiana

The second annual Indiana Computer Expo will be held at the
Indianapolis Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, on
September 15th and 16th. The Exposition is particularly
designed for business end users of micros and minis, and will
deal with software and peripherals as well as basic computer
systems.

For more information, call Ernie Kerns & Associates,
317-259-8111.

Twin Cities Show

The second annual Twin Cities Computer Show and Software
Exposition will take place September 15-18 at the Minneapolis
Auditorium in Minneapolis, MN. Show hours are 10:30 a.m. to
5:30 p.m.

The Show will feature microcomputers for business and per-
sonal use and a wide variety of relevant software and
peripherals. For more information, contact Northeast Exposi-
tions, 822 Boylston St., Chestnut Hill, MA 02167;
800-841-7000 or, from Massachusetts, 617-739-2000.

Compuf air in Seattle

Over 20,000 people are expected to attend Compufair Seattle,
to be held September 16-18 at the Seattle Center Exhibition
Hall. Compufair will be the most comprehensive personal
computer show and seminar series the Pacific Northwest has
ever seen.

Participation at the presentations and seminars is included in
the $5 per day admissions charge. For more details, contact
Tom Ikeda, Compufair, Inc., 909 N.E. 43rd St., Suite 302, PO
Box 45218. Seattle, WA 98105; 206-633-3247.

Deep in the Heart of Texas

The first Heart of Texas Computer Show is scheduled for
September 16-18 at the Convention Center in San Antonio.
The emphasis of the Show will be on microcomputer-based
small business systems.

For further information, contact Robin G. Mann at
512-226-4636. or write Heart of Texas, PO Box 12094, San
Antonio. TX 78212.

REPCON 83— New York

REPCON '83. the Fall Electronics Fair, will be held
September 21-23 at the Terrace on the Park, Flushing Mea-
dow, Queens, NY. Open to the trade only, the exhibition will in-
clude personal computers, components and materials, as well
as electronic games and home entertainment products.

For more information, call A.D. Adams Advertising,
212-685-9060.

SICOB— Paris in the Fall

SICOB, the leading French computer exhibition, is scheduled
for Sept. 21-30 in the exhibition halls at CNIT, la Defense,
Paris. Just preceding this event (Sept. 19-23), the 9th World
Computer Congress, IFIP Congress '83, will be held at the Palais
de Congres. The Congress is the annual conference of the Inter-
national Federation for Information Processing (IFIP), with
membership in 42 countries.

For full information on these events, contact Philip H. Dorn,
Dorn Computer Consultants, Inc., 25 East 86th St., New York,
NY 10028; 212-427-7460.

Rocky Mountain Show — Denver

The second annual Rocky Mountain Computer Show and
Software Exposition will be held September 22-24 at the Merchan-
dise Mart in Denver. Show hours are 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The Show will feature microcomputers for personal and busi-
ness use as well as a wide variety of software and peripherals.
For more information, contact Northeast Expositions, 822
Boylston St., Chestnut Hill, MA 02167; 800-841-7000 or, from
Massachusetts, 617-739-2000.

Mae con/ 8 3 in Kansas City

The Maecon/83 High-Technology Electronics Exhibition
and Convention is scheduled for September 26-28 in Bartle
Hall, Kansas City, MO.
For more details, call Jerry Fossler, 213-772-2965.

ICC — Minneapolis

The second Invitational Computer Conference of the fall will
take place on September 29 at Radisson South Hotel, Minneap-
olis, MN. (See ICC item above for more details.)

CP/M '83/East— Boston

CP/M '83/East, the International Conference and Exposition
of CP/M microcomputer software, will be held September
29-October 1 at Hynes Auditorium in Boston, MA.

For further information, call 800-343-2222 or 617-739-2000.

PC '83— Boston

PC '83, an international conference and exposition featuring
IBM Personal Computers and PC-compatibles, will be held Oc-
tober 4-6 at the Bayside Exposition Center in Boston.

Seminar programs and general sessions will deal with ap-
plications and technical information and will show users how to
get the most from their PCs. For further information, write or
call Northeast Expositions, 822 Boylston St., Chestnut Hill, MA
02167; 800-841-7000 or, in Massachusetts, 617-739-2000.

ONLINE '83— Chicago

ONLINE '83, the fifth annual conference and exposition for
online database users, will take place October 10-12 at the
Palmer House in Chicago. The focus of the conference will be on
microcomputing software, particularly with reference to
database and other information applications.

For program, application or other information, call Jean -Paul
Emard, the Conference Chairman, at 203-227-8466.

EduTech/East— Philadelphia

EduTech/East '83, the national educational computer con-
ference and exposition, will be held October 13-15 at the
Philadelphia Civic Center. The conference will offer over 300
hours of sessions.

Presentations will include computer use in instruction, ad-
ministration, research and many other areas. For further infor-
mation, contact Carol Houts, Judco Computer Expos, Inc.,
2629 North Scottsdale Road, Suite 201, Scottsdale, AZ 85257;
800-528-2355 or, within Arizona, 602-990-1715.

Education Conference — Silicon Valley

The IEEE Computer Society is sponsoring EdCompCom '83,
a conference on educational uses of computer technology, to be
held October 18-20 in Silicon Valley, with Conference head-
quarters in the Red Lion Inn, San Jose, CA.

The Conference will focus on potential and actual uses of the
latest developments in computer-related hardware and soft-
ware, including such innovations as touch screens and
robotics. For further information, contact M. Dundee Maples,
Conference Co-Chairman, Educational Computer, PO Box 535,
Cupertino, CA 95015; 408-252-3224.

Software Show — San Francisco

The National Software Show will take place October 19-21 at
the Trade Show Center in San Francisco. The Show is primarily
for manufacturers to present their software packages to sales
organization representatives.

Seminars and conference sessions will complement the
many exhibits. For more information, call David Russell, Presi-
dent, Raging Bear Productions, at 800-732-2300 or, from
within California, 415-924-1 194.

Chicago Show

The Chicagoland Personal Computer Show will take place
October 2 1-23 at O'Hare Expo Center. Its main aim is to inform
the new personal computer buyer and to show him what is
available. For additional information, write Chicagoland Per-
sonal Computer Show, Suite 400, 222 West Adams St.,
Chicago, IL 60606, or call Richard Lewis at 312-263-3131.

Applef est — San Francisco

Applefest/San Francisco will be held October 28-30 at the
Moscone Center in San Francisco. It is the largest Apple-specific
show in the country. For more details, call Northeast Exposi-
tions, 800-841-7000 or, from within Massachusetts,
617-739-2000.

Microcomputing, September 1983 123

CONVERSIONS

Ektch month Microcomputing will publish translations of
selected programs published in the magazine. We encourage
our readers to submit a hard copy of their conversions along
with a cassette or disk of the program. Include a self-
addressed, stamped envelope for the return of magnetic
media if not selected for publication. Authors whose transla-
tions are chosen will receive payment for their efforts.

Program conversion of the Cribbage program. (April 1 983) for
the Heath H89/H19 systems. By J.C. Harper, Ascension
Island, Patrick AFB, FL 32925.

10 '

20 '

30 '
40 '

Cribbage
by
Chris Lindell
from: Microcomputing , April 1983
converted to: Mbasic 5.2
by: J.C. Harper, Ascension Island
for: Heath H89/H19

44 WIDTH 255

45 DEFINT A-Z:0PTI0H BASE 1

46 I-0:J-0:C9-0:P9-0:Z-0:Z9-0:K-0

50 E$-CHR$(27):GRON$-E$+"F":GROF$-E$+"G":REV|-E$+"p":NORV$-E$+"q*

60 CURON$-E$+"y5":CUROF$-E$+"x5":ERS$-E$+"K":PRINT E$+"x4"

70 PRINT E$+"xl";E$+"x4";CUR0F$:PAUSE-1000

80 DEF FN LOK$(ROW,COLUMN)-E$+"Y"+CHR$(31+ROW)+CHR$(31+COLUMN)

90 CL|-E$+"E":BEEP|-CHR$(7)

100 PRINT CL$;FN L0U( 12 , 25) ; " CRIBBAGE ":

MSG$-"PLEASE STAND-BY Initializing variables" :G0SUB 7010
110 RANDOMIZE PEEK(ll)

115 DIM W(6,4),M(6.4),J(52),V(15,7),I(52)
120 DIM D(52,4),C$(52),Y(6,4),C(4,4),

D$(6),Q(11,6),R(4,5),S(4)
130 ■

................INITIALIZE VARIABLES------ -----------

140 FOR N-l TO 15:F0R M-l TO 7:READ V(N,M) :NEXT:NEXT:G0SUB 7010
150 FOR N-l TO 11:F0R M-l TO 6:READ Q(N ,M) :NEXT:NEXT:G0SUB 7010
160 FOR N-l TO 4:F0R M-l TO 5:READ R (N ,M ): NEXT : NEXT : G0SUB 7010
170 FOR N-l TO 4:READ S(N) :NEXT:G0SUB 7010
180 FOR N-l TO 6:READ D$(N) :NEXT:G0SUB 7010
190 FOR 1-1 TO 13

READ C$:IF IO10 THEN CS-" "+C$

C$(I)-C$+"S

200

220

240

260

280

290 NEXT

300 Sl-0:S2-0

310 '

C$(I+13)-C$+"C
C$(I+26)-C$+"D
C$(I+39)-C$+"H

SHUFFLE THE DECK AND CUT FOR DEAL, LOW CARD DEALS

320 GOSUB 5660
330 GOSUB 5820
340 '

350 GOSUB 5660
360 GOSUB 6100
370 '

SHUFFLE AND DEAL

■FIND THE BEST FOUR CARD, DISCARD THE OTHER TWO

380 GOSUB 3400

390 '

DISCARDS

400 I1-V(B9,5)

410 I2-V(B9,6)

420 MSG$-"Y0UR DISCARDS? (INPUT 2 CARDS) ":G0SUB 7010

430 PRINT CUR0N$; : INPUT ; 1 3 , 14 : PRINT CUROF*

440 IF I3<1 THEN 460

450 IF I3<7 THEN 480

460 MSG$-"now real ly BEEP$ :G0SUB 7010

470 GOTO 420

480 IF INT(I3)<>I3 THEN 460

490 IF 14-13 THEN 460

500 IF I4<1 THEN 460

510 IF I4>6 THEN 460

520 IF I4<>INT(I4) THEN 460

530 PST-((I3-1)«10)+13:LIN-4:PRINT FN L0K$( 3 .PST-2) ; " ";:G0SUB 6480

540 PST-((I4-1)«10)+13:LIN-4:PRINT FN L0X$( 3, PST-2 ) ; " ";:G0SUB 6480

550 '

...... CRIB ......

560 FOR

570

580

590

600

610 NEXT

620 '

J-l TO 4

C(1,J)-M(I1.J)

C(2,J)-M(I2,J)

C(3,J)-Y(I3,J)

C(4,J)-Y(I4,J)

630 GOSUB 4200

640 '

650 GOSUB 1490
660 '

GENERATE THE UPCARD

PLAY THE HAND

COUNT THE POINTS

670 IF M-0 THEN 710

680 MSG$-"Y0U SCORE FIRST ":G0SUB 7010

690 Xl-1

700 GOTO 930

710 MSG$-"I score first ".-GOSUB 7010

720 Xl-2

124 Microcomputing, September 1983

Listing continued. .

730 GOTO 1200

740 PRINT FN L0K$( 13 , 28) ; " - - the crib contains '

750 FOR 1-1 TO 4

760 PST-((I-1)«10)+13:LIN-16:CARD$-C$(C(I,1)):RV-C(I,1):G0SUB 6320

770 NEXT

780 FOR 1-1 TO 4

790 FOR J-l TO 4

800 W(I,J)-C(I,J)

810 NEXT

820 NEXT

830 C-l

840 W(5,4)-T9

850 GOSUB 4420

860 ON XI GOTO 870,910

870 R-P:G0SUB 9010

880 MSG$."The crib has

900 GOTO 1370

910 Xl-3

920 GOTO 1050

930 r-i

940 FOR 1-1 TO 6

IF I-I3 THEN 1010
IF I-I4 THEN 1010
FOR J-l TO 4

+STR$(P)+"points":GOSUB 7010

950
960
970
980
990
1000

NEXT
K-K+l

W(X,J)-Y(I.J)

1010 NEXT

1020 W(5,4)-T9

1030 C-0

1040 GOSUB 4420

1050 MSG$-"How many points do you have":GOSUB 7010

1060 PRINT CUR0N$; :INPUT P9:PRINT CUROFI

1070 D-P-P9

1080 IF D>-0 THEN 1110

1090 MSG$."not with that handry again. "+BEEP$ :G0SUB 7010:G0SUB 8010

1100 GOTO 1050

1110 R-P9:G0SUB 9040

1140 IF D-0 THEN 1190

1150 R-D:GOSUB 9010

1170 MSG$-"auggins for "+STR$(D)+" pointsGOSUB 7010

1190 ON XI GOTO 1200,740,1370

1200 FOR K-l TO 4

1210 L-V(B9,I)

1220 FOR J-l TO 4

1230 W(X,J)-M(L,J)

1240 NEXT

1250 NEXT

1260 FOR K-l TO 4

1270 L-W(X.l)

1280 NEXT

1290 W(5,4)-T9

1300 C-0

1310 GOSUB 4420

1320 R-P:G0SUB 9010

1340 MSG$-"I have "+STR$(P)+"points":GOSUB 7010

1360 ON XI GOTO 740,930

1370 GOSUB 6390

1380 GOTO 350

1390 '

— .... END OF GAME ......

;S1;

1400 PRINT CL$

1410 PRINT FN LOX$(12,30);"I win

1420 END

1430 PRINT CL$

1440 PRINT FN L0X$( 1 2 , 30 ) ; "You win ";S2;

1450 END

1460 '

;S2

to ";S1

PLAY THE HAND

1490
1500
1510
1520
1530
1540
1550
1560
1570
1580
1590
1600
1610
1620
1630
1640
1650
1660
1670
1680
1690
1700
1710
1720
1730
1740
1750
1760
1780
1790
1820
1830
1840
1850
1860
1870
1880
1890
1900
1910
1920
1930
1940
1950
1960
1980
1990
2000
2010
2030
2040
2050
2060

Y5-0:M5-0:C-0:S9-0:G-0

IF M-0 THEN 1910

IF Y5<>4 THEN 1540

IF M5-4 THEN 2470

GOTO 1910

MSG$-"Your play. What card number ?":G0SUB 7010

PRINT CURONI; :INPUT C$:PRINT CUR0F$:IF C$-""THEN C$-"GO"

IF C$-"go" OR C$-"G0" THEN 1910

FOR C6-1 TO 6

IF C$-D$(C6) THEN 1620
NEXT

MSG$-"invalid play"+BEEP$:GOSUB 7010
GOTO 1540
IF C6-I3 THEN 1850
IF C6-I4 THEN 1850
IF Y5-0 THEN 1680
FOR J-l TO Y5

IF I(10+J)-C6 THEN 1870
NEXT

IF S9+Y(C6,2)>31 THEN 1890
S9-S9+Y(C6,2)
Y5-Y5+1
I(10+Y5)-C6
C-C + l

J(C)-Y(C6,4)
GOSUB 2960

PST-((C6-1)*10)+13:LIN-4:PRINT FN L0K$( 3, PST-2) ; "X ";
GOSUB 6390
F-l

R-P:GOSUB 9040
IF S9<>31 THEN 1910
F-0:C-0:S9-0:G-0
GOTO 1910

MSG$-"You discarded that one, try again "+BEEP$ :G0SUB 7010
GOSUB 8010:G0T0 1540

MSG$-"already played - try again "+BEEP$:GOSUB 7010
GOSUB 8010:G0T0 1540

MSG$-"that totals more than 31, try again "+BEEP$ :GOSUB 7010
GOSUB 8010:G0T0 1540
IF M5<>4 THEN 2050
IF Y5-4 THEN 2470

IF C$<>"go" AND C$O"G0" THEN 1510
IF F-2 THEN 2000

MSG$-"You get 1 point for last card":GOSUB 7010
R-l:GOSUB 9040
F-0:C-0:S9-0
GOTO 1510

MSG$-"I get 1 point for last card":GOSUB 7010
R-1:G0SUB 9010
F-0:C-0:S9-0
GOTO 1510
K9-0:P9-0
C9-C

Listing continued.

2070

2080

2090

2100

2110

2120

2130

2140

2150

2160

2170

2180

2190

2200

2210

2220

2230

2240

2250

2260

2270

2280

2290

2300

2310

2320

2330

2350

2360

2370

2380

2400

2410

2420

2430

2440

2450

2460

2470

2480

2490

2500

2520

2530

2540

2560

2570

2580

2590

2600

2610

2620

2630

2635

2640

C-C+l
H9-S9
FOR 19-1 TO 6

I(I9)-0

IF 19-11 THEN 2250

IF 19-12 THEN 2250

IF M5-0 THEN 2170

FOR J9-1 TO M5 V

IF I9-K20+J9) THEN BA-1:J9-M5

NEXT:1F BA-1 THEN BA-0:G0T0 2250

IF H9+M(I9,2)>31 THEN 2250

K9-K9+1

S9-H9+M(I9,2)

J(C)-M(I9,4)

GOSUB 2920

IF P>P9 THEN P9-P

I(I9)-P

I(K9+30)-I9
NEXT
C-C9
S9-H9

IF I9O0 THEN 2570

IF C$0"go" AND C$O"G0" THEN 2360
IF G-l THEN 2370

MSG$-"I get 1 point for last card ":GOSUB 7010
C-0:S9-0
R-1:G0SUB 9010
GOTO 1510

IF Y5<>4 THEN 2430

MSG$-"I'll give you 1 point for last card ":G0SUB 7010
R-1:G0SUB 9040
C-0:S9-0:C-0
C$-""
GOTO 1910
IF G-l THEN 1510

MSG$-SPACE$(10)+"G0":G0SUB 7010
G-l

GOSUB 8010:G0T0 1510
IF F-0 THEN 2560
IF F-l THEN 2530

MSG$-"I get 1 point for last card ":G0SUB 7010
R-1:G0SUB 9010
GOTO 2560

MSG$-"you get 1 point for last card ":G0SUB 7010
R-1:G0SUB 9040
RETURN
C-C+l
M5-M5+1

IF COl THEN 2740
FOR J9-1 TO 4

I9-V(B9,J9)

FOR VVZ-1 TO M5-1

IF I(VVZ+20)-I9 THEN 2710

DON'T PLAY A 5 FIRST

2650
2660
2670
2680
2690
2700
2710
2720
2730
2740
2750
2760
2770
2780
2790
2800
2810
2820

2830
2840
2870
2880
2890
2900
2910
2920

IF M(I9,2)-5 THEN 2710

I(M5+20)-I9

J(C)-M(I9,4)

P9-0

S9-M(I9,2)

GOTO 2810
NEXT J9
L-V(B9,1)
GOTO 2660
FOR J9-1 TO K9

I9-I(J9+30)

IF I(I9)-P9 THEN 2780
NEXT

l(M5+20)-I9
J(C)-M(I9,4)
S9-S9+M(I9,2)

PRINT FN LOK$(7,30); n - - MY CARDS ARE - -";
PST-((I9-1)*10)+13:LIN-10:PRINT FN L0K$( 10, PST-2) ; i
CAKD$-C*(M(I9,1)):RV-M(I9,1):G0SUB 6320:G0SUB 6390
F-2

R-P9:G0SUB 9010
IF S9<>31 THEN 2900
F-0:C-0:S9-0
GOTO 1510

IF C$-"go" OR C$-"GO" THEN 1910
GOTO 1510

CHECK FOR 15, 31 RUNS

2960 P-0

2970 IF C-l THEN 3200

2980 IF S9<>15 THEN 3010

2990 P-P+2

3000 GOTO 3030

3010 IF S9<>31 THEN 3030

3020 P-P+2

3030 IF C-2>2 THEN MAX-C-2 ELSE MAX-2

3040 FOR I-C TO MAX STEP -1

3050

IF J(I)OJ(I-l) THEN 3140

3060

ON C-I+l GOTO 3070,3090,3110

3070

P-P+2

3080

GOTO 3120

3090

P-P+4

3100

GOTO 3120

3110

P-P+6

3120

3130

3140 IF C-2 THEN 3200

3150 R9-0

3160 FOR 1-3 TO C

3170 GOSUB 3210

3180 NEXT

3190 P-P+R9

3200 RETURN

3210 FOR J-l TO C

3220 J(J+10)-J(C-J+1)

3230 NEXT

3240 FOR K-l TO I

FOR L-K+l TO I

IF J(K+10)<J(L+10) THEN 3300

X-J(K+10)

J(K+10)-J(L+10)

J(L+10)-X
NEXT

3250

3260

32 70

3280

3290

3300

3310 NEXT

3320 FOR K-l TO 1-1

3330 IF J(K + 10)OJ(K+11)-1 THEN 3360

3340 NEXT

3350 R9-I

3360 RETURN

3370 '

...... FIND BEST FOUR CARD HAND

3400 P9-0

3410 FOR Z9-1 TO 15
3420 I1-V(Z9,1)
3430 I2-V(Z9,2)

Listing continued.

3440
3450
3460
3470
3480
3490
3500
3510
3520
3530

I3-V(Z9,3)

I4-V(Z9,4)

FOR J-l TO 4

W(1,J)-M(I1,J)
W(2,J)-M(I2,J)
W(3,J)-M(I3,J)
W(4,J)-M(I4,J)
W(5,J)-25

NEXT:GOSUB 7010

EVALUATE THE HAND

3540 C-0

3550 GOSUB 4420

3560 V(Z9,7)-P

3570 IF P>P9 THEN P9-P

3580 NEXT:GOSUB 7010

3590

FIND ALL HANDS WITH MAX SCORE (P9)

3600 J-0

3610 FOR 1-1 TO 15

3620 IF V(I,7)OP9 THEN 3650

3630 J-J+l

3640 I(J)-I

3650 NEXT:G0SUB 7010

3660 IF J>1 THEN 3720

3670 '

3680
3690
3700

B9-I(l)

RETURN
i

3720
3730
3740
3750

C9-5

Z-l

GOTO

3960

3760
3770
3780
3790

C9-8

Z-2

GOTO
i

3960

3800
3810
3820
3830

C9-7

Z-3

GOTO
i

3960

3840
3850
3860
3870

C9-11

Z-4

GOTO

3960

3880
3890
3900
3910

C9-1

Z-5

GOTO

3960

3920
3930
3940
3950

B9-INT(J*RND)+1

B9-I(B9)

RETURN

THIS IS SINGLE BEST HAND

NO SINGLE BEST HAND. SEARCH FOR KEY CARDS
...... CHECK FOR FIVES ......

CHECK FOR EIGHTS

CHECK FOR SEVENS

CHECK FOR JACKS

CHECK FOR ACES

RANDOMLY CHOOSE A BEST HAND

BEST HAND CONTAINS MOST OF CARD C9

3960

P9-0

3970

FOR 1-1 TO 15

3980

J(I)-0

3990

4000

FOR 1-1 TO J

4010

FOR K-l TO 4

4020

L-V(I(I).K)

4030

IF M(L,4)OC9 THEN 4050

4040

J(I)-J(I)+1

4050

4060

IF J(I)>P9 THEN P9-J(I)

4070

NEXT:G0SUB 7010

4080

K-0

4090

FOR 1-1 TO J

4100

IF J(I)OP9 THEN 4130

4110

K-K+l

4120

B9-I(I)

4130

4140

IF KOI THEN 4160

4150

RETURN

4160

ON Z GOTO 3760,3800,3840,3880,3920

4170

GENERATE THE UP CARD

4200 U-INT(RND*38)+14

4210 PRINT

4220 LIN-21:PST-63:CARD$-C$(D(U,1)):RV-D(U,1):

PRINT FN L0K$(LIN,47);"THE UPCARD IS "-.GOSUB 6320

4230 PRINT

4240 FOR 1-1 TO 4

4250 W(5,I)-D(U,I)

4260 NEXT

4270 T9-W(5,4)

4280 IF W(5,4)oll THEN 4370

4290 IF M-0 THEN 4340

4300 MSG$«"tvo points to «e":GOSUB 7010

4310 R-2:G0SUB 9010

4330 RETURN

4340 MSG$-"tvo points to you":GOSUB 7010

4350 R-2:G0SUB 9040

4370 RETURN

4390 '

4410

SCORE THE FIVE CARD HAND

check for nobs

4420 P-0

4430 IF C-l THEN 4510

4440 FOR 1-1 TO 4

4450 IF W(I,4)<>11 THEN 4490

4460 IF W(I,3)OW(5,3) THEN 4490

4470 P-P+l

4480 GOTO 4510

4490 NEXT

4500 '

...... CHECK FOR 4 OR 5 CARD FLUSH

4510 FOR 1-1 TO 3

4520

IF W(I,3)OW(I + l,3) THEN 4630

4530 NEXT
4540 '

CRIB SCORES ONLY 5 CARD FLUSH

4550 IF COO THEN 4600

Microcomputing, September 1983 125

Listing continued.

4560 P-P+4

4570 IF W(4,3)OW(5,3) THEN 4630

4580 P-P+l

4590 GOTO 4630

4600 IF W(4,3)OW(5,3) THEN 4630

4610 P-P+5

4620 '

CHECK FOR 2 CARD 15s

4630 FOR 1-1 TO 4

4640 FOR -1+1 TO 5

4650 IF W(I,2)+W(J,2)<>15 THEN 4670

4660 P-P+2

4670 NEXT

4680 NEXT

4690 '

...... CHECK FOR 3 CARD 15s

4700 FOR 1-1 TO 3

4710 FOR J-I+l TO 4

4720 FOR K-J+l TO 5

4730 IF W(I ,2)+W(J,2)+W(K,2)<>15 THEN 4750

4740 P-P+2

4750 NEXT

4760 NEXT

4770 NEXT

4780 '

4790

FOR 1-1

4800

FOR J-I+l TO 3

4810

FOR K-J+l TO 4

4820

FOR L-K+l TO 5

4830

IF (W(

4840

P-P+2

4850

4860

4870

4880

4890

IF (W(I,2)+W(J,2)+W(K,2)+W(L,2))<>15 THEN 4850

4900

S-0

4910

FOR 1-1 TO 5

4920

S-S+W(I,2)

4930

4940

IF S<>15 THEN 4960

4950

P-P+2

4960

CHECK FOR 5 CARD 15

CHECK FOR 2,3,4 OF A KIND

4970 FOR 1-1 TO 13

4980 J(I)-0

4990 NEXT

5000 FOR 1-1 TO 5

5010 J-W(I,4)

5020 J(J)-J(J)+1

5030 NEXT

5040 FOR 1-1 TO 13

5050 ON J(I)+1 GOTO 5090,5090,5080,5070,5060

5060 P-P+6

5070 P-P+4

5080 P-P+2

5090 NEXT

5100 '

......SORT HAND ASCENDING SEQUENCE

5110 FOR 1-1 TO 5
5120 FOR J-I TO 5

5130 IF W(I,4)<-W(J,4) THEN 5150

5140 SWAP W(I ,4),W(J,4)

5150 NEXT
5160 NEXT
5170 '

...... CHECK FOR 5 CARD RUN

5180 D-W(l,4)-Q(l,l)

5190 FOR 1-1 TO 11

5200 FOR J- TO 5

5210 Q(I,J)-Q(I,J)+D

5220 NEXT

5230 NEXT

5240 FOR 1-1 TO 11

5250
5260
5270
5280

FOR J-l TO 5

IF W(J,4)<>Q(I,J) THEN BA-l:J-5
NEXTrIF BA-1 THEN BA-0:GOTO 5310

5 CARD RUN

5290
5300
5310 NEXT
5320 '

P-P+Q(I,6)
RETURN

CHECK FOR 4 CARD RUN

5330 FOR L-l TO 2

5340 D-W(L,4)-R(1,1)

5350 FOR 1-1 TO 4

5360 FOR J-l TO 4

5370 R(I,J)-R(I,J)+D

5380 NEXT

5390 NEXT

5400 FOR 1-1 TO 4

5410 FOR K-l TO 4

5420 IF W(K+L-l,4)OR(I,K) THEN BA-l:K-4

5430 NEXT:IF BA-1 THEN BA-0:GOTO 5470

5440 '

4 CARD RUN

5450
5460
5470

P-P+R(I,5)
RETURN

5480 NEXT
5490 '

■CHECK FOR 3 CARD RUN

5500 FOR L-l TO 3
5510 D-W(L,4)-S(1)
FO* 1-1 TO 3

S(I)-S(I)+D
NEXT
FOR 1-1 TO 3

IF W(L+I-l,4)OS(I) THEN BA-l:I-3
NEXT:IF BA-1 THEN BA-0:GOTO 5610

5520
5530
5540
5550
5560
5570
5580

5590

P-P+S(4)

5600

RETURN

5610

5620

RETURN

5640

3 CARD RUN

SHUFFLE

5660 FOR 1-1 TO 52
5670 I(l)-0

126 Microcomputing, September 1983

Listing continued.

5680 NEXT

5690 FOR 1-1 TO 52

5700

5710

5720

5730

5740

5750

5760

5770 NEXT

5780 RETURN

5800 '

J-INT(RND«52)+1

IF I(J)<>0 THEN 5700

D(I,1)-J

D(I,3)-INT((J-1)/13)+1

D(I,4)-J-13*INT((J-1)/13)

IF D(I,4)<10 THEN D(I , 2)-D(I ,4) ELSE D(I,2)-10

I(J)-1

CUT FOR DEAL

5820
5830
5840
5850
5860
5870
5880
5890
5900

5910
5920
5930
5940

5950
5960
5970
5980
6000
6020
6090

MSG$- n cut for deal - (1-52) ":GOSUB 7010

PRINT CURON$;:INPUT I:PRINT CUROF$

IF Kl THEN 5860

IF K53 THEN 5880

MSG$-"be serious nowBEEP$ :G0SUB 7010

GOTO 5820

IF IOINT(I) THEN 5860

Il-D(I.l)

PRINT FN L0K$(1,1);CL$;FN LOK$( 10 , 1 5) ; "your card is...":

PST-30:LIN-10:CARD$-C$(I1):RV-I1:G0SUB 6320

J-INT(RND(I)*52)+1

IF J-I THEN 5910

Jl-D(J.l)

PRINT FN L0K$(16,15);"«y card is ";:

CARD$-C$(J1):RV-J1:LIN-16:PST-30:G0SUB 6320

IF D(I,4)<D(J,4) THEN M-l :MSG$-"YOUR " : LIN-10:G0T0 6000

IF D(J,4)<D(I,4) THEN M-0:MSG$-"MY " : LIN-16:G0T0 6000

PRINT BEEP$;FN L0K$(4 , 12) ; "please cut again ";

GOTO 5830

PRINT FN L0K$(LIN,40);GR0N$;"-h";GR0F$;REV$;MSG$;"CRIB";N0RV$

RETURN

deal

6100 PRINT FN LOK$( 1 , 1 ) ;CL$ : R-0: S9-0:

MSG$-" please wait. I'm looking at my cards

6110 PRINT FN LOK$(20,12);:

IF M-0 THEN PRINT "MY CRIB" ELSE PRINT "YOUR CRIB"

6120 M-l-M

6130 Y-l-M

6150 PRINT FN L0K$(1,29);" - - YOUR CARDS ARE - - "

6160 PRINT

6170 FOR 1-1 TO 6

GOSUB 7010:G0SUB 6390

6180
6190
6200
6210

6220
6230 '

6240
6250

K-2*I-Y
L-2«I-M
FOR J-l TO

COMPUTER'S HAND

M(I,J)-D(K,J)
...... PLAYER'S HAND

Y(I,J)-D(L,J)

6260 PST-((I-1)*10)+13:LIN-4:PRINT FN LOK$( 3, PST-2) ; :

CARD$-C$(Y(I,1)):RV-Y(I,1):PRINT USING "#_." ;I :GOSUB 6320
6270 NEXT
6280 RETURN
62 90 '

DRAW A CARD

ii , ii o n

6320 IF RV>26 THEN PRINT REV$

6325 PRINT FN LOK$(LIN , PST) ; GRON$ ; " °" ;CARD$ ; " 8 " :

LIN-LIN-1:PRINT FN LOK$(LIN ,PST) ; "°" ; " '
6330 LIN-LIN+2:PRINT FN LOK$(LIN , PST) ; "°"; " ',

LIN-LIN+1:PRINT FN LOK$(LIN , PST ) ; "e" ; STRINGK 4 , "a" ) ; "d"
6340 LIN-LIN-4:PRINT FN LOK$(LIN , PST) ; "£" ; STRING$(4 , "a" ) ; "c";GROF$ ;NORV$
6350 RETURN
6360 '

...... GAME STATS ------

6390 PRINT FN LOK$( 19 , 1 ) ;GRON$; STRING$( 39 , "a" ) ; "c"
6400 FOR VV-20 TO 24:PRINT FN L0K$( VV ,40) ; "°" ; :NEXT
6410 PRINT FN L0K$(21,1);:

PRINT USING "YOUR SCORE _ ###_ MY SCORE ,

6420 PRINT FN L0K$(22,1);:

PRINT USING "SUM OF CARDS . . ._ ##_ POINTS ...
6430 PRINT FN LOK$( 24 , 1 ) ; STRING$( 39, "a") ; "d" ;GROF$ ;
6440 RETURN
6450 '

...... ERASE A CARD ......

6480 PRINT FN LOK$(LIN ,PST) ; " ":LIN-LIN-1:

PRINT FN LOK$(LIN,PST);" "
6490 LIN-LIN+2:PRINT FN LOK$(LIN ,PST) ; " ":

LIN-LIN+1:PRINT FN LOK$(LIN ,PST) ; "
6500 LIN-LIN-4:PRINT FN LOK$(LIN ,PST ) ; " "
6510 RETURN
6520 '

...... DATA - CARD VALUES ......

._ ###";S2,S1
,._ ##";S9,R

6550
6560
6570
6580
6590
6600
6610
6620
6630
6640
6650
6660
7000

DATA
DATA
DATA
DATA
DATA
DATA
DATA
DATA
DATA
DATA
DATA
DATA

1.2
1.2
1.3
1.4
2,3
1.1
1.1
1.2
1.2
1.1
1.2
1.2

.3,4,

.4,5,

.5.6,

.5,6,

.1.2,

.2,3,

.3,4,

.2,3,

.3.3

.3.4,

5,6.0,1.2.3,5.4.6.0.1.2,3.6.4.5,0

3,6,0,1.2,4,6,3,5,0,1,2,5,6,3,4,0

2,6.0,1,3,4,6,2,5,0,1,3.5.6,2,4,0

2,3,0,2,3,4,5,1,6,0,2,3,4,6,1.5.0

1.4,0.2,4,5,6,1.3,0,3.4.5,6.1,2.0

3,09,1,1,2,2,3,12.1,1,2,3,3,12

4, 08, 1,2, 2, 2, 3, 09, 1,2, 2, 3, 3, 12

4, 08, 1,2, 3, 3, 3, 09, 1,2, 3, 3, 4, 08

4,08,1,2,3,4,5,05

6,1,2,2,3,6,1,2,3,3,6,1,2,3,4.4

5, 6. A. 2, 3. 4. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, J, Q.K

WRITE MESSAGES ON LINE 25

7010 PRINT FN LOK$( 25 , 1 ) : IF REV-1 THEN REV-O:

PRINT REVS ELSE PRINT N0RV$:REV-1
7020 PRINT ERS$;MSG$;NORV$;
7030 RETURN
8000 '

...... WASTE OF TIME ......

8010 FOR Z3-1 TO PAUSE :NEXT: RETURN
9000 '

...... COMPUTER SCORE

9010 S1-S1+R:G0SUB 6390:G0SUB 8010
9020 IF Sl>-121 THEN 1400
9030 RETURN
9035 '

...... PLAYER SCORE —

9040 S2-S2+R:G0SUB 6390:G0SUB 8010
9050 IF S2>-121 THEN 1430
9060 RETURN

Circle 53 on Reader Service card.

**&

Circle 186 on Reader Service card.

vO 13 Wi,h '

Tailor your Apple DOS 3.3 to your needs
DOS Customize!*. This powerful utility
upgrades your Apple while making it easier to
use. Now you can alter DOS commands, load
programs four times faster, and change error
messages.

Redesign your disk catalog to use five col-
umns. Add headers to show you the number
of sectors available or the disk volume
number. Add footers that'll give the total
number of files and sectors in use. You can
even add messages.

Control the Maxfiles default, the automat-
ic reload of your language card, the BASIC
DOS command prefix, and your greeting
program.

Make your Apple uniquely yours with
DOS Customer.

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* Apple is a registered trademark of Apple Computer Inc.

Yes! . . .Send me copies of DOS Customizer.

#0440AD@$24.95. Please add $2.50 postage & handling.

□ VISA
name _
address

city

card# :

□ MC DAE DCheck/MO

state.

exp. date.

.zip.

signature

Instant Software CALL 1-800-258-5473 to order 339B7C

Instant Software • Rt. 101 & Elm St. • Peterborough, NH 03458

that old
fabric ribbon
still has life

Ebonize Printer Ribbon Ink Spray
SAVES MONEY by reducing
ribbon replacement cost. EASY
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top. Spray on Ebonize. Allow to
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™$$0

Dealer

Inquiries

Invited

only
$4495

(includes shipping

and handling)

Illinois residents add 72$ (6%) sales tax
SEND CHECK OR MONEY ORDER TO:

ego Computer Supply, In

1 20 West Madison St., Chicago, IL 60602
Phone: 312-372-6692

WHAT REALLY IS
INSIDE YOUR
COMPUTER?

INSIDE YOl r»
COMPUTER

Find out in INSIDE YOUR COMPUTER from Wayne
Green Books. I.R. Sinclair takes the cover off your comput-
er and shows you what's inside and what it does. Novices
will find information on:

•Microprocessors •Input/output

• Interpreters • Machine language

• Registers • Logic operations

A look at programming ties it all together— how hardware
and software make a microcomputer work. The informa-
tion applies to any microcomputer system. A glossary of
computer terms and an appendix on binary, decimal, and
hexadecimal conversion make the book all the more
valuable.

SI 2.97. softcover. 109pp..5'/ 2 xH 1 2. ISBN *0-88OO6-058- 1

Call TOLL FREE 1-800-2 58-5473 lor credit card orders. Or mail your
order with payment or compUtc credit eard information. Include SI .50
for shipping and handling. Photocopy of coupon is acceptable tor ordering,

Send to:

Wayne Green Inc.
Attn: Book Sales
Peterborough. NH 03458
Dealer Inquiries Invited

i^S'NCLAlR

Yes, I want to know what's inside my

computer!

Send me copies of INSIDE YOUR COMPUTER. (BK7390) En-
closed is $12.97 per copy plus $1.50 shipping and handling.
□ MASTERCARD bank* , DVISA UAMEX

( ard * .Expires

Signature
Name

Address

Cily

State and Zip

Send To: WAYNE GREEN BOOKS Attn. Book Sales
UPS Delivery If complete street address is given.

Peterborough. NH. 03458

339B7I

Microcomputing, September 1983 127

Timex-Sinclair lOOO program conversion of Healthful Hints
program (January 1983) by Madeleine Moore, 6105 Tilden
Lane, Rockville, MD 20852.

TMI3 PROGRAM WILL ME
ASSESS ,OUP PRESENT
HEART DISEASE. IT IS

10 REM THIS PPOGRAH 15 A GUIDE
TO HEART DISEASE PI5r
20 FEH IT 15 ONL." A GUIDE.
CONSULT .OUR PHY 5 IC IAN FQP

-IPE E'hIT INFORMATION.

30 PEH ORIGINALLY UP ITTEN IN
HICP050FT BASIC By D.C. SHOEHA

r ER

40 REM CONCERTED TO T 5 1000
ISf B. HADELEINE MOORE

65 PRINT GUIDE TO HEART DISEA
5E RISK . "

6" PRINT

70 PRINT
LP YOU"

79 PRINT
RISK OF"

SO PRINT
A GUIDE"

35 PRINT ONL/, FOR MORE E«ACT
INFORMATION

90 PRINT "vOU SHOULD CONSULT Y
OUR"

91 PRINT PHYSICIAN."
93 PRINT

100 PRINT TO USE THI5 PROGRAM"

105 PRINT JUST AN5UER THE OUES
TI0H5.

110 PRINT

120 PRINT FIR3T. ,'OUP AGE. CHO
05E FPOH THE"

125 PRINT "FOLLOUING AGE GROUPS

130 PRINT "1-TEN TO TUENTy r-EAR
5 OLD"

1*0 PRINT 2-TUENTY-ONE TO THIR
T. ,-EARS OLD"
150 PRINT "3-THIRT\ -ONE TO FORT

■ EAP5 OLD"
160 PRINT "4-F0RT.-CNE TO FIFTY

EARS OLD
170 PRINT '5-FIFT,' -ONE TO ilXTV

EARS OLD "
130 PRINT S-SIXT,- -ONE AND OVER

190 PRINT ' UHICH CATEGORY i. 1 -6 .' "

195 INPUT A

200 IF A 1 OR A. 6 THEN GOTO 120

205 IP Ar5 THEN GOTO ££&

210 IF A=6 THEN LET A=A*2

215 GOTO 225

220 LET AsA-fl

225 PRINT A

230 CL5

240 PRINT

FACTOR. "

24.5 PRINT
OUING "

250 PRINT
F HEART"

NE'T 15 THE HEREDITY
5ELECT FROH THE FOLL
1-NO KNOUN HISTORY

Listing continued.

255 PRINT
IL l
260 PRINT

HEART"
265 PRINT

a?e print

HEART"
2"5 PRINT

230 PRINT
HEART"

235 PRINT
TV"

290 PRINT

HEART"

295 PRINT
TV"

300 PRINT
TH HEART"

205 PRINT

DISEASE IN THE FAM
2-ONE RELATIVE UITH

DISEASE, OVER SIXT
3-TUO RELATIVES UITH
DISEA5E . OVER SIXT/
4-ONE RELATIVE UITH

DISEASE, UNDER SIX
5-TUO RELATIVES UITH

DISEASE, UNDER SIX
6-THREE RELATIVES UI

DISEASE, UNDER SIX
UHAT CATEGORY (1-6) "

310 PRINT "

315 INPUT H

320 IF HI OR H>6 THEN GOTO 2*0

330 IF H=5 OR H=6 THEN LET M»H+
1

3*0 PRINT H

350 CLS

360 PRINT NOU FOR YOUR UEIGHT.

365 PRINT "CHOOSE FROM THE FOLL
OUING

1-MORE THAN 5 POUNDS

STANDARD UEIGHT FO

HEIGHT"
2-BETUEEN -5 AND +5

THE STANDARD"
3-6 TO 20 POUNDS OVE

4-21 TO 35 POUNDS OV

2 70 PRINT

UNDER THE'

330 PRINT
R /OUR"

335 PRINT

2 90 PRINT
POUNDS OF"

395 PRINT

*O0 PRINT
RUEIGHT"

410 FRINT
EPUEIGHT"

*20 PRINT "5-36 TO 50 POUNDS OV
EPUEIGHT"

430 PRINT "6-MORE THAN 50 POUND
5 OVERUEIGHT"

440 PRINT "UHICH CATEGORY ( 1-6 ) "

445 INPUT U

450 IF U;l OR U>6 THEN GOTO 360

452 IF U=l OR U=2 OR U=3 THEN G
OTO 465

455 IF U=4 OR UsS OR U=6 THEN L
ET U=U+2

460 GOTO 470

465 LET U=U-1

Circle 203 on Reader Service card.

.DIEI1

COPVUNK

Copy programs ond data to o different brand computer

Tap .nto the world of messages and dota files

FREE 334 page book

THl COMPUTE HANDBOOK OF PERSONAL COMPUTER COMMUNICATIONS

by Alfred Glossbrenner
Everything you need to go online with the woi c/

COPYLINK it a software package that runs on your computer Use it to transfer programs and
files between different disk sizes and formats Foi example programs on a standard 8 di ^
moy be copied to on Osborne 5' diskette Then the programs can be run on the Osborne compute.

COPYLINK includes complete teimmal capobility Send ond receive Electronic mail Send telex
messages, receive free programs Scan Computer Bulletin Boards Converse with the Source and
CompuServe Search datobases get stock quotes buy bartei find onythmg 01 anyone you d<-

Ready to run packages available for:

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8 Stondard CPM includes installation package

Coming soon for the following computers:

IBM PC • Columbia Dota • COMPAQ • Victor 9000 • Apple II with softcard

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NEC PC 8000 • Seiko • Super Brain • Chameleon • TRS 80 Model IV

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If youi computer is not listed ask your dealer

U.S. Digital Corporation

5699 D S E International Woy
Milwoukie Oregon 97222
503 1 654 0668

TIX RCA 296537 U S D UR

Complete Package

Manual ond Book

VISA and Master Cord welcomed

99 95
39 95

Dealer Inquiries Invited

Listing continued

470 PRINT U

490 CLS

500 PRINT "SMOKING HABITS ARE N

EXT. SELECT"

505 PRINT "FROM THE FOLLOUING G
ROUPS "

510 PRINT "l-N0N-5M0r ER"

520 PRINT "2-CI6AP AND -OR PIPE"

530 PRINT "3-10 OR FEUER CIGARE

T~F fE *■*• PER D H i

540 PRINT "4-20 CIGARETTES A DA

Y "

550 PRINT "5-30 CIGARETTES A DA

560 PRINT 6-40 OP HORE CIGAPET
TES A DAY"
570 PRINT UHICH CATEGORY ( 1-6 I "
575 INPUT T

530 IF Tl OR T>6 THEN GOTO 500
535 IF T = l OR T=2 THEN GOTO 612
59^ IF T = 3 THEN GOTO 616
600 IF T=4 THEN GOTO 620

610 IF T=5 OR T=6 THEN LET T=T +
5

611 GOTO 625
512 LET T=T-1
614 GOTO 625
616 LET T=T+1
613 GOTO 625
620 LET TrT+2
625 PRINT T
630 CLS

640 PRINT "NOU FOR YOUR EXERCIS
E PATTERNS."

645 PRINT "CHOOSE FROM "

650 PRINT "1-INTENSIVE OCCUPATI
ON AND"

655 PRINT " RECREATIONAL ExERT
ION"

660 PRINT "2-MODERATE OCCUPATIO
NAL AND"

665 PRINT RECREATIONAL EaERC
ISE"

670 PRINT "3 -SEDENTARY UORK AND

INTENSE"

675 PRINT " RECREATIONAL E*.EPC
ISE"

630 PRINT "4-SEDENTARy OCCUPATI
ONAL AND"

690 PRINT " MODERATE RECREATIO
NAL EXERCISE"

700 PRINT "5-SEDENTARy UORK AND

LIGHT"

705 PRINT " RECREATIONAL ExERC
ISE"

710 PRINT '6-COMPLETE LACK OF A
LL EXERCISE"

"20 PRINT "UHICH CATEGORY t 1-6) "

725 INPUT E

"30 IF E<1 OR E>6 THEN GOTO 640

7*0 IF E=* OR E=5 THEN GOTO 755

"45 IF E=6 THEN LET E=E+2

750 GOTO 760

755 LET E=E + 1

"56 GOTO 760

"60 PRINT E

770 CLS

730 PRINT "YOUR DIET CHOLESTERO
L IS NEXT."

790 PRINT "CHOOSE FROM THE FOLL
OUING: "

300 PRINT "1-CH0LE5TER0L BELOU

310 PRINT " DIET CONTAINS NO A

NIHAL OR"
315 PRINT " SOLID FATS"
32& PRINT "2-CH0LESTER0L 131-20

5 MG. "

330 PRINT " DIET CONTAINS 10 P
ERCENT"

331 PRINT " ANIMAL OP SOLID FA
TS"

3*0 PRINT "3-CH0LESTER0L 206-23
MG."

350 PRINT " DIET CONTAINS 20 P
ERCENT"

351 PRINT ANIMAL OR SOLID FA
TS"

360 PRINT "*-CH0LESTER0L 231-25
MG."

370 PRINT " DIET CONTAINS 30 P
ERCENT"

371 PRINT ANIMAL OP SOLID FA
TS"

330 PRINT "5-CM0LE5TER0L 256-23
MG."

390 PRINT DIET CONTAINS *0 P
ERCENT"

391 PRINT " ANIHAL OP SOLID FA
TS"

900 PRINT "6-CH0LE3TER0L 231-30
MG. "

DIET CONTAINS SO P
ANIMAL OP SOLID FA

910 PRINT '
ERCENT"

911 PRINT '

T5"

915 PRINT "UHICH CATEGORY ■ 1 -6 > "

920 INPUT C

930 IF CI OR C >6 THEN GOTO 7S0

9*0 IF C=6 THEN LET C=C*1

9*5 PRINT C

950 CL5

960 PRINT "NOU FOR >'0UR BLOOD P
RE55UPE. "

965 PRINT "SELECT FROH THE FOLL
OUING

970 PRINT 1-UPPER READING OF 1
00"

930 PRINT ' 2-UPPER READING OF 1
20"

990 PRINT "3-UPPER READING OF 1
*0"

1000 PRINT "*-UPPER READING OF 1
60"

1010 PRINT "5-UPPEP READING OF 1
30"

1020 PRINT "6-UPPEP READING OF 2
00 OR OVER"

1025 PRINT UHICH CATEGORY > 1 -6 ' "
1030 INPUT P

10*0 IF P 1 OR P,6 THEN GOTO 960
1045 IF P=5 THEN GOTO 1056
1050 IF P=6 THEN LET P=P+2

1055 GOTO 1060

1056 LET P=P+1

1057 GOTO 1060
1060 PRINT P
1070 CLS

1030 PRINT "FINALL. . < OUR 5E'.

1035 PRINT "CHOOSE FROM THE FOLL

OUING "

1090 PRINT "1-FEHALE UNDER AGE 4

1100 PRINT "2-FEMALE OF AGE 40 T

50"

1110 PRINT "3-FEMALE OVER 50"

1120 PRINT 4-MALE"

1130 PRINT "5-STOCKY HALE"

1140 PRINT "6-BALD, STOCKY MALE"

1145 PRINT "UHICH CATEGORY i 1-6) "

1150 INPUT 5

1155 IF 5<1 OR S>6 THEN GOTO 103

1160 IF 5=4 OR 5=5 OR S*6 THEN L

ET S=S+1

1165 PRINT S

1190 CLS

1200 REH TALL. THE FACTORS

1220 LET GT=A*H + U-tT+E + C+P*S

1230 CLS

1240 PRINT "RESULTS OF THIS OUIZ

5UGGEST"
1250 PRINT "THAT ,'OUR RISK OF SU
FFERING"

1260 PRINT "A HEART ATTACK IS"
1300 IF GT-40 THEN GOTO 1360
1310 IF GT =31 THEN GOTO 1380
1320 IF GT =24 THEN GOTO 1390
1330 IF GT =17 THEN GOTO 1400
1340 IF GT =11 THEN GOTO 1410
1350 GOTO 1420

1360 PRINT "AT A DANGEROUS AND U
RGENT LEVEL . "
1370 GOTO 1430
1330 PRINT "AT A DANGEROUS LEVEL

1335 GOTO 1430

1390 PRINT "MODERATE"

1395 GOTO 1430

1400 PRINT GENEROUSLi' BELOU AVE

RAGE"

1405 GOTO 1430

1410 PRINT "BELOU AVERAGE"

1415 GOTO 1430

1420 PRINT "UELL BELOU AVERAGE

1425 PRINT

1430 PRINT "REMEMBER, THIS 15 ON

L, A GUIDE. "

1440 PRINT IT IS NOT A SUBSTITU

TE FOP"

1445 PRINT COMPETENT HEDICAL AD

VICE. "

2000 PEH HEALTHFUL MINTS PROGPAH
iJANUAP.' 1983 MICROCOMPUTING' T

RANSLATED FOP T 3 1000 16K By
HADELEINE HOOPE
6106 TILDEN LANE
ROCKVILLE. HD. 20352

VlC-20 program conversion of Micro Money-Maker
(September 1982) by Brian McCown, 1021 Trenton Drive,
Pensacola, FL 32505.

10 PR I HTM"

30 PEN

48 REM

THIS RPOGPfiM

50 REM

CflLCULRTES THE

31 REM

THE FUTURE

Z2 REM

v'RLUE OF CASH

53 REM

PLOWS

54 REM

60 REM 1

WRITTEN BV

61 REM

JOE NAJJAR III

62 REM

63 REM

10DIFIED FOR

64 REM

:OMMODORE BV

65 REM

BRIAN H. MCCOWN

30 REM

120 REM

INITIALIZE

121 REM

PROGRAM TO

122 REM

ACCEPT 100

123 REM

DIFFERENT CASH

124 REM

FLOW AMOUNTS

130 REM

140 REM

CF(X;=CfiSH

141 REM

AMOUNT •

130 REM

160 REM

N<:r>;>=NUMBEP

161 REM

CONSECUTIVE

162 REM

PEPERITIUNS

163 REM

OF CASH FLOW

164 REM

NUMBER X

170 REM

190 DIMCF-: 100.),HC1O0.>

128 Microcomputing, September 1983

Listing continued

20O

220

230
231
232
233

235
240
250
260
265
280
290

300

360
370
330
410
450
460
470
480
490
432
500
530
531
540
550
570
530
531
598
6ly
620
630
640
658
660
670
690

700

800

810

820

830
840

0PEN4,4 REM OPENING PRINT FILE

C=l P=l

REN

REM INPUT CR3H

REM FLOWS BND

REM CONSECTUIVE

REM

PR I NT "PERIOD # = " -P

PRINT'CRSH FLOW RMOUNT" INPUTR*

IFRM"END"flKDCOiTHEN478

CF<C>-VflL<Rf) IFCF':C"'=0RNDRt:>"0"THEN330

N(C>"I

PR I NT "NO. OF CONSECUTIVE" PRINT "3IMILRR CR3H FLOWS"

IFN<C»1THEN GOSUS 413

C=C+1 P=P+1

G0T0240

FOP K«3 TO N<C •• P=P+1

PRINT-P" .P. "CF";CF<C)

NEXTk RETURN

OC-1

REM

REM INPUT INTEREST

REM RRTE

REM

PRINT" WHRT IS THE ASSUMED INTEREST RRTE PER PERIOD ' IN

INPUT 1 1

IF 1 1=0 THEN 530

11=11/100

REM

REM CRLCULRTE THE

REM FUTURE VALUE

REM

NH=0 T=0

FOR X"C TO 1 STEP -1

FOR V=l TO N •;/:,'

NN*NN-CFCX>*(1+I!) TT

T=T + 1

me: ;tv.

FV=NN

REM

REM VIDEO DISPLAY

REM OF RESULT

REM

PPINT'TWBWTHE FUTURE VALUE" PRINT" IS",FV

REM

REM ASK IF HRPD

REM COPY IS DESIRED

REM

PRINT PRINT"DO VOU WANT R HRPD" PRINT'XOPV PRINT OUT <WN>"

INPUTR* IF R*="V" THEN G03UB 1010

A*«-

PEM y More

Listing continued

850

851

870

330

831

900

310

340

950

960

970

980

381

990

1000

1005

1010

1020
1030
1040

1050

1 055
1060
1030

1 090

1100
1110
1120

1130
1140
1145
1150
1155
1160
1170
1130

NEW INTERS!

PRTE^

REM

PRINT"* DO VOU WANT TO

PRINT" DIFFERENT INTEREST

IFR*="V"THEN530

IFRf ■■:; "N"THEN890

REM

REM COMPLETE RERUN?

REM

fl*=""

PRINT" DO VOU WRNT TO RUN

INPUT A*

IFR*="V"THEN220

IFR*="N"THENEND

GOTO980

R*="N"

REM

HRRD COPV
PRINT OUT
ROUTINE

RECALUTE AT A"
RRTE" INPUTR*

AGAIN FROM SCRATCH

<V OR N)"

REM

FOR X»l TO 5 PRINT#4 NEXTX

PRINT**/" FUTURE VALUE SUMMARV" PRINT#4

PRINTM/" ASSUMED INTEREST RATE PER PERIOD'M 1*100, "'/." -PRINT#4

PRINT#4," CASH FLOW DETAIL" ■ PRINT#4

PPINT#4," PERIOD", SPC'-:7>, "CASH FLOW", SPC(6;'. "NO. OF CONSECTUTIVE"

PRINT#4," NUMBER "SPCf 7 >, "AMOUNT", SPCC9); "SIMILAR CASH FLOWS"

PRINT#4 EL*="

P=l FOR X=l TO C

P*»STRt<P) CF$=STR*(CF<X>> N*-STR*<N<X>)

PRINT#4 . LEFT$(BL*, C7-LEN<P») > > i Pi; SPC 1 ' 16-LEN'XF$> >,

PR I NT#4 , CF * , SPC < 1 6-LEN < NS ) ) , N$

P«P*N<X) NEXT X

PR I NT#4 PR I NT#4 PR I NT#4

PRINT#4," FUTURE VALUE = *",FV RETURN

Article Ideas — Write On

Microcomputing relies on you, the reader, to provide applications,
reviews, construction articles ... to keep your fellow readers abreast
of developments in the microcomputing field.

Send your submissions to Microcomputing, Article Submission, 80
Pine St., Peterborough, NH 03458.

Circle 187 on Reader Service card.

anize Yourself

Find all your Apple * programs
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$39.95

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and SAVE programs on Cassette Deck.

Load or Save 8K in approximately 30 seconds!
Try it— your Un-Rabbitized VIC or 64 takes
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Almost as fast as 1541 Disk Drive! Don't be fool-
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Allows one to APPEND Basic Programs!

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Microcomputing, September 1983 129

BOOK REVIEWS

Edited by Larry Canale

Apple Programming Practice
Crack Coverage of Computer Architecture
A Potent Data Processing Reference
Conversion Handbook to the Rescue!

Basic Exercises
For the Apple

J. P. Lamoitier
Sybex, 1982
2344 Sixth St.
Berkeley. C A 947 10
Softeover, 232 pp., $12.95

J. P. Lamoitier' s Basic Exercisesfor the
Apple is exactly what its name im-
plies — programming exercise. The book
covers the use of flowcharts, geometry,
data processing, mathematical computa-
tions, financial computations, games, op-
erations research, statistics and some
miscellaneous exercises — and all of these
concepts are supported by program
listings.

The chapter on flowcharting is excep-
tional. It offers insight on how to use
flowcharts in planning alternate meth-
ods of problem-solving. It also offers a
means of "desk-checking" the flowchart
to verify its validity before you start pro-
gramming.

Typically, the book introduces a math-
ematical concept, such as Armstrong
numbers. ("Numbers that are equal to
the sum of the cubes of their digits are
known as Armstrong numbers.") Follow-
ing the definition is a programming exer-
cise. ("Write a program that outputs all
Armstrong numbers between 1 and
2000.")

The next step in the author's format is
an analysis of the programming re-
quired, followed by a flowchart, a listing
of the program and a printout of the pro-
gram run. In many cases, the presenta-
tion is concluded with a criticism of the
program presented and ideas on how to
improve it.

This works very well, provided the
reader does his part. Since my mathe-
matical abilities are limited, I felt my
brain creak whenever I was forced to
learn to use a "new" mathematical con-
cept. (Now I understand what Armstrong
numbers are, and how to write a program

130 Microcomputing, September 1983

that will list them for me, but I haven't
the faintest idea what to do with them.)

Somehow, though, going through the
exercises taught me some new program-
ming techniques, so it appears that even
a mathematical klutz can get some good
out of it.

The reader who has " . . .a minimum of
scientific or technical background . . . '
should have a field day with this book —
especially if his work or hobby involves
Egyptian fractions, Fibonacci maximum
algorithms, prime numbers, Cartesian
coordinates. Hero's formula, linear re-
gression, polygonal fields, Simpson's
rule, Weddle's method and analytic
geometry. I, for one, found it rather
intimidating.

One set of program exercises made this
book worth its price for me — conversion
of base 10 numbers to binary and hexa-
decimal. These programs will go into my
library for future use when I graduate out
of Basic to a lower : level language.

The title of Basic Exercisesfor the Ap-
ple is accurate in one sense but mislead-
ing in another. Although it's certainly a
book of exercises in Basic, it is not a book
of basic exercises.

David Goodf ellow
Seattle, WA

Introduction to Computer
Architecture and
Organization

Harold Lorin

John Wiley & Sons, 1982

605 Third Ave.

New York, NY 10158

Clothbound, 300 pp., $30

Anyone who has a basic understand-
ing of computer languages and operation
and wants to explore the underlying con-
cepts used in the design of today's central
processing units will find Introduction to

Computer Architecture and Organiza-
tion appealing. It's a college-level text-
book, but it's written so that people with
technical interests also can learn the con-
cepts explained.

This 31 1-page book is divided into two
parts. The first deals with computer ar-
chitecture, and the second concentrates
on organization and implementation. A
complete index of almost six pages con-
cludes the book. This book is "all

meat" — it uses diagrams and drawings
sparingly.

Coverage of the main topic is excellent.
This is the first book I've read in which
the author actually admits that the term
"computer architecture" has no precise
meaning. Any author willing to admit
that something computer-related has no
precise definition obviously has some-
thing to offer.

It begins with simple explanations of

register models and proceeds through in-
struction sets and assembly languages.
Register organization, memory-address-
ing conventions, programming sequenc-
ing, interrupt mechanisms and control
states . . . these concepts and many more
are clearly and concisely described.

The book is fairly generalized, but uses
specific examples from the IBM S/370,
Series/ 1 and 8100, Sperry Rand Univac
1100, Cray Research CRAY-1, Digital
Equipment Corp.'s VAX- 1 1 , Data General
Nova and Intel 8080 and 8086 computers.
These machines are not explained so
much as they are used to provide ex-
amples of organization and architecture.

The style is crisp. New concepts are ex-
plained as they are encountered. The in-
dex is full and complete, making the
book one of the best combined text and
reference manuals around. It was written
to be used by students, and as such it is
well-done. But it also can be used by the
serious or technically-minded person,
without the benefit of a classroom. But be
forewarned: this is a technical book, and
people without an adequate background
and substantial technical interests will
find it too detailed. This is an enjoyable.

2 CO O

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0) <T3

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heavy-duty book about conceptual com-
puter design.

If you're interested in learning more
about the architectural design of a com-
puter, or are involved in computer educa-
tion in high school or college, this book
certainly belongs in your collection. And
it's new— and not just another 1960 or
1970 text in reprint.

Jim Hansen
New Boston, NH

Data Processing:

An Introduction with Basic

Donald Spencer

Charles E. Merrill Publishing Co., 1982

1300 Alum Creek Drive

Columbus, OH 43216

Clothbound, 500 pp., $18.95

One of the first things I look for in any
textbook is a good index, but it seems
that fewer and fewer publishers are tak-
ing the time to include a truly useful one.
Data Processing: An Introduction with
Basic is a welcome exception.

While the index is not exhaustive — it
doesn't list every page on which a chosen
subject is mentioned — it is complete
enough to be useful. Indeed, by avoiding
the one-word-mentions of most items,
this index doesn't send you off chasing
useless references. A fairly complete
glossary expands many of the definitions
used in the book.

These two features, coupled with a
color-coded, detailed table of contents
and the author's preface (which steps
you through the book's organization),
make Data Processing an easy text to get
into. I also like the use of big, bold page
numbers at the top of each page: you can
flip through the book quickly to find an
index reference. Most chapters start with
a two-page color spread over a graphic
paper grid and end with a colored box of
"key terms."

The book is divided into four major
parts, each with an appropriate introduc-
tion or summary. There are ample color
photographs, drawings, cartoons, charts,
colored headings and bold type. I particu-
larly like the use of the three-inch edge
margins on each page for summaries,
headings and picture captions. The
pages are eight inches wide, but straight
text is confined to the five inches out
from the spine. This leaves plenty of
white space along the edges, making the
book appear open and uncluttered — even
though each page is packed with infor-
mation.

As a teacher of programming and com-
puter fundamentals, I can see a definite
application of author Donald Spencer's
text to many of my college classes. His
book offers the student an excellent intro-
duction to computing in general, the his-
tory of computers and the hardware/

132 Microcomputing, September 1983

software requirements of modern com-
puter systems.

The 130-page section dedicated to Ba-
sic programming introduces program-
ming concepts and Basic commands. An
interesting graphics technique demon-
strates program form and the results of
program execution: virtually every page
in the programming section has a color
drawing of a computer screen illustrating
the program concepts discussed in the
text. The author uses practical program
examples such as compound interest,
business sales computation and area of
regular shapes.

Each major section is followed by a
summary and review questions. The
publisher offers separate student and in-
structor guides to supplement the text.
Chapter objectives, sample test ques-
tions and more than 200 transparency
masters are included in the instructor's
manual. The student guide offers addi-
tional review questions, chapter high-
lights and more terms to define. A script-
ed slide presentation also is available
separately.

Obviously, Data Processing is designed

Data Processing: An
Introduction with Basic is

a comely, colorful,
compact text. Nearly any

data processing

professional would enjoy

having it for reference.

as a textbook in formal teaching situa-
tions, and that's the way it should be
used. Even with the author's careful or-
ganization, there is so much information
on each page that the beginner with no
previous computer experience will need
additional support to get the most from
the material.

Apparently, this is what Spencer had
in mind, because he points out that "An
exhaustive treatment of subject matter
has been avoided." I like this approach
because it enhances the value of the text
as a quick reference to most topics on
computers and computing.

My experience with teaching adults
over the past six years has shown, how-
ever, that inexperienced students usual-
ly cannot comprehend complicated com-
puter subjects unless they get a careful
interpretation from an instructor or a
simplified text. Incredible as it may seem
to anyone with computer experience,
completely inexperienced students fre-
quently cannot grasp concepts such as

"A computer network is a cost-effective
way to distribute high-speed computer
services to a large number of users. In the
future, global computer networks, using
international information and databases,
may very well make computer power
available to everyone in the same way
the electric and other utilities service our
homes and offices."

I can anticipate such questions as
"What services?" "Why connect com-
puters together?" "What data?" "What
is a database?" "Why would I want com-
puter power in my home?"

My only major complaint with the text
is its shallow treatment of microcomput-
ers and the burgeoning network/data-
base systems available for them. The
original copyright date is 1978, with a re-
vision in 1982. I haven't read the origi-
nal, but I think I can see the results of this
revision: pictures of newer computer sys-
tems and mentions of some of the latest
technology. The text's orientation still is
from the "big machine" perspective.

Spencer talks about the future uses of
micros, but neglects current happenings.
It's hard to keep up with the rapidly
changing technology, but Spencer seems
to be two or three years behind the times.
His projection that, "By 1985, many
working professionals ... will be using
computers," and that "many small busi-
nesses" and "many homes" will be
equipped with microcomputers is a con-
servative estimate, at best.

Spencer doesn't see widespread use of
the microcomputer until sometime in the
next decade. He predicts a 16,000-
character computer for less than $ 100 by
1985. The TS-1000 made this prediction
a reality in 1983, and other relatively in-
expensive but powerful microcomputers
already have placed computers in the
hands of "many" professionals and in-
dividuals. In 1982 alone, nearly three
million microcomputers were sold for
homes and businesses.

Overall, Data Processing: An Introduc-
tion with Basic is a comely, colorful,
compact text. Nearly any data processing
professional would enjoy having it for
reference. Teachers in the field will find
it particularly helpful, but the begin-
ning student will need additional support.

Tom Badgett

Bluefield, WV

A Practical Guide to
Word Processing and
Office Management Systems

Mary Jane Forbes

Digital Equipment Corp., 1982

12 Crosby Drive

Bedford, MA 01730

Paperback, 200 pp., $22

This slim paperback book was pub-
lished by DEC to help people understand

word processing and office systems ter-
minology. It's crammed with informa-
tion—some general, some vague— on
text processing. A detailed list of refer-
ences, organized by chapter, concludes
the book.

Unfortunately, A Practical Guide to
Word Processing and Office Manage-
ment Systems is hard to read. At least
four typestyles of assorted size are used.
The author uses bold type randomly, but
gets so carried away with the flexibility of
the modern phototypesetter that the re-
sult is extremely hard-to-read text.

Since there isn't even an index to help
you locate anything of interest, my sug-
gestion is to politely accept a complimen-
tary copy from your DEC salesman, but
hang on to your money if he tries to sell it
to you.

Jim Hansen
New Boston, NH

) The Basic Conversions
Handbook for Apple,
TRS-80, and Pet Users

The Brain Bank

(David Brain, Philip Oviate, Paul Paquin

and Chandler Stone)

Hay den, 1982

50 Essex St.

Rochelle Park, NJ 07662

Softcover, 80 pp., $8.95

Why does it happen that when you find
a nice, useful Basic program it's written
only for the TRS-80, and you have a Pet,
or maybe an Apple II? You have to pass it
up because you just can't transfer pro-
grams easily between machines.

Well, hold on, because there's a book
on the market— The Basic Conversions
Handbook for Apple, TRS-80. and Pet
Users — that may come to your rescue.

The Basic Conversions Handbook cov-
ers the following conversions:

• Apple and Pet into TRS-80 programs;

• TRS-80 and Pet into Apple II programs;

• TRS-80 and Apple II programs into Pet
programs.

Each of these sections includes a list
that compares computer A and computer
B commands and the forms in which the
commands are used by each machine.
Commands with a direct relationship be-
tween two computers are listed, while
commands that have no conversion
equivalent to the other computer are
listed as NONE, with an explanation of
the command.

For example, CLS is the TRS-80 state-
ment that clears the display screen. If
you are converting from TRS-80 to Apple
II, looking up CLS will give you HOME.
But if you try to convert a TRS-80 com-
mand that is not available on the Apple II,
such as PRINT USING, a NONE will be
given for the Apple II.

When converting from one computer

to another, there will be commands that
you cannot convert, as in the above ex-
ample. When you encounter such a prob-
lem, as in graphics conversions, the au-
thors suggest that you first determine
what the graphics on one computer will
be and then attempt to create your own
graphics, referring to the screen charts at
the back of the book.

Use your imagination, the authors
state. What do they mean? If you could
dream up graphics conversions of your
own, then you wouldn't need the book.
The point is that it's difficult to convert
programs with extensive graphics, such
as arcade games, and that your attempts
to use this book for that purpose would be
a wasted effort.

On a similar subject, the authors talk
about converting machine language pro-
grams or routines. They suggest that you
try to "create" your own functional
equivalent routines in Basic. Again, I'll
have to disagree with these suggestions,
since the purpose of machine language
routines usually involves speed consider-
ations. Machine language programs are
written because the function they per-
form requires speed.

If it were possible to convert machine
language to Basic, that would defeat the
purpose, and the program would prob-
ably run too slowly. At any rate, you
couldn't replace machine language rou-
tines for Basic in arcade-type games.
They just wouldn't work correctly.

This book could be used to convert pro-
grams that do not make extensive use of
graphics. I would also stay away from try-
ing to convert programs using PEEK and
POKE statements, although they are cov-
ered in the book. These commands relate
to the internal functions of the computer,
and it's difficult to make function com-
parisons between machines.

The book is quite thorough, though, in
its comparisons, and could be beneficial
to those who need to convert Basic pro-
grams between machines. It also could
be used as a guide for converting pro-
grams between other computers and
those mentioned. For example, the sec-
tion on TRS-80 to Pet conversions could
be used as a guide to translate programs
from the TRS-80 to the VIC-20, because
the Pet and the VIC-20 have similar
Basics.

Another section covers sample conver-
sions; it would be helpful for comparing
your first conversion attempts to those
already listed.

In general, this book could be used as a
guide to converting some types of Basic
programs from one machine to another.
And it may be quite helpful in converting
business or educational-type Basic pro-
grams that use little or no graphics. But I
wouldn't rely on it alone to help you con-
vert Basic programs using graphics or
machine language routines.

Howard Berenbon
W. Bloomfield, MI

out our

books for
your

TRS-80

THE

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and
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_tated
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Microcomputing, September 1983 133

NEW SOFTWARE

Edited by Dan Muse

It's Not Tax Time,
But ...

Micro-Tax (Microcomputer
Taxsystems, Inc., 6203 Variel
Ave., Suite A, Woodland Hills,
CA 91367) is a complete tax
preparation system.

Micro-Tax will allow you to
compute and print over 30
schedules and forms for mul-
tiple clients; you can automat-
ically compute underpay-
ment penalties, self-employ-
ment taxes, minimum taxes,
as well as income averaging.

Micro-Tax will let you pro-
duce returns that look exactly
like those required by the gov-
ernment. Micro- Tax runs on
systems with CP/M, PC DOS
and MS DOS.

As part of its "post tax sea-
son sale," you can purchase
Micro-Tax from Microcom-
puter Taxsystems for $58.
Reader Service number 474.

Poly Want a
Library?

The Poly Librarian, an ob-
ject module librarian for the
IBM Personal Computer, is a
productivity enhancement
software package for pro-
grammers who use the MS
DOS (PC DOS) operating
system.

The PolyLibrarian is de-
signed to organize related ob-
ject code modules (.OBJ files)
into a single library (.LIB file).
The IBM PC Linker will then
automatically select only the
modules necessary to con-
struct an executable program
(.EXE file).

The PolyLibrarian works
with any compiler or assem-
bler that uses the IBM PC
Linker. By providing main-
frame librarian functions, the
product decreases software
development time. Program-
mers can reduce code size,
simplify structured program-
ming, construct their own li-
braries, or examine and reor-
ganize existing libraries.

To run PolyLibrarian, you
need an IBM PC with MS DOS
I Version 1.0, 1.1 or 2.0, and

64K of RAM. The software
costs $99 and is available
from Polytron Corp., PO Box
787. DS 2-210, Hillsboro, OR
97123. Reader Service num-
ber 469.

Back Up

The Bakup Package, from
Computer Dynamics, Inc.
(105 S. Main St.. Greer, SC
29651), is a set of machine-
language programs for Z-80-
based computers using CP/M
2.2.

The programs are designed
to be used for file archival op-
erations with systems using
hard disk and floppy disk
storage.

The Bakup Package in-
cludes utilities for making
back-up copies of hard disk
files on floppy disks, automati-
cally fragmenting files too
large for one disk onto sepa-
rate disks, and a utility for
restoring files archived on
floppy disks back to the hard
disk. Bakup also provides a
method to determine the ar-
chive status of files and dis-
plays an extended disk direc-
tory of the archive status of all
files.

Bakup assures absolute file
verification by comparing the
original and copied files on a
byte-by-byte basis. The pack-
age costs $50. Reader Service
number 460.

Control Phone Costs

Long Distance Analyzer is
a menu-driven program for
the IBM Personal Computer
and TRS-80 Models II, III, 4,
12 and 16 that streamlines
accounting for long-distance
costs. It is designed to save
you money by organizing
your phone bills, identifying
parties called, producing to-
tals and reports, and analyz-
ing geographic patterns.

Long Distance Analyzer is
designed to cut abuse and
waste, bill phone costs to cli-
ents, recover phone company
billing errors, evaluate special

services (like WATS), print an
alphabetical directory and
cost account by your categor-
ies. You can accumulate
monthly bills for long-term
analysis.

The IBM version requires
64K, 1.0 or 1. 1 DOS, and one
floppy disk drive. The TRS-80
version requires at least 48K,
TRSDOS and two disk drives.
A printer is helpful but not re-
quired. It costs $195. Golden
Braid Software, PO Box 2934,
Sarasota, FL 33578. Reader
Service number 46 1 .

An Apple Cross

Assembler

Allen Systems' (2151 Fair-
fax Road, Columbus, OH
43221) SX-48 is a cross as-
sembler software package for
the Apple II computer. The
program allows MCS-48 (8021,
8022, 8048, 8049, 8748 and
8749) software development
on the Apple II system.

The SX-48 package con-
sists of an editor and assem-
bler. The editor lets you create
8048 assembler programs, as
well as conventional text files.
Files that are created may be
either saved on disk or used as
input to the assembler. The
assembler generates both a
program listing and the ob-
ject code.

The SX-48 is designed to
provide a utility that allows
8048 development on a com-
puter system that is both pop-
ular and affordable.

The cross assembler is writ-
ten in 6502 assembler and as-
sembles at a rate of about
1000 lines per minute. The
SX-48 requires an Apple II
Plus, at least 48K RAM and
at least one disk drive. It
costs $55. Reader Service
number 468.

Two Inexpensive
Apple Programs

8th Dimension Enterprises
(PO Box 62366, Sunnyvale,
CA 94088) has released two
programs for the Apple II Plus
computers: Personal Inventory
and Beginners Text Writer.

As the name suggests. Per-
sonal Inventory is designed to
organize your personal li-
brary and personal items. It
provides an inventory, a loca-
tor and a cross reference.

With Personal Inventory,
you don't have to thumb
through technical journals for
that special technical refer-
ence. You can do a quick
search and sort for partial
spelling; no special codes are
needed.

With Personal Inventory,
you can, for example, log out
demo and customer loaner-
type tools to companies or
people who buy from you. The
program also can tell you if
you loaned a book out of your
personal or technical librar-
ies. The program costs $59.95.

Beginners Text Writer is a
program that prints your let-
ters, memos, notices and so
on. The output is in all capital
letters, unless you are using
an Apple He. No commas or
semicolons can be used. Files
can be saved, viewed on the
screen, edited, resaved under
a new name and appended. It
costs $15.95. Reader Service
number 471.

Get the Facts— Fast

Fast Facts is an executive
filing system/report writing
program designed for execu-
tives, office workers and
home users of the IBM Person-
al computer and compatibles.

Fast Facts can store any-
thing from personal records to
mailing lists to recipes. Infor-
mation can be called up by
last name, address, zip code-
there are as many ways to re-
trieve information as there are
users. Information can be
called up in combinations; for
example, all the "Joneses" in
the 02159 zip code.

Fast Facts can write infor-
mation to other spreadsheet
programs, such as VisiCalc,
1-2-3 and MultiPlan. Fast
Facts data converted to DIF (a
format used for data storage
by many popular software
packages) can then be read by

134 Microcomputing, September 1983

Now is your
chance to cash in
on your robotics pro-
gramming skill and cre-
ativity. Enter the first Micro-
computing/Heath Company
HERO 1 programming contest and
win up to $500 worth of prizes.
Microcomputing magazine, in conjunction
with the Heath Company, manufacturers of the
HERO 1, invites all HERO 1 programmers to sub-
mit their best applications to this contest. Entries
will be judged in the following categories:
1. Standard HERO 1 with arm.
2. Modified HERO 1, including additional RAM or ROM, as well
as any mechanical or

electrical modifications.

Prizes will be awarded to the top three entrants in
each category. Two $500 gift certificates (one from
each category) will be awarded. Each first place
winner will select the prizes of his choice, worth up
to $500, from the latest Heath Company catalog.
A $100 gift certificate, good toward any purchase
from the Heath catalog, will be awarded to both
second place winners. Third place winners
from each category will receive a copy JHH
of Microcomputing column-
ist Mark Robillard's new
book, "HERO 1 Advanced
Programming and Inter-
facing," plus a one-year
paid subscription to Mi-
crocomputing magazine.

CONTEST RULES

1. All programs must be
submitted both on cas-
sette tape and in hard
copy form. A brief, writ-
ten description of the ap-
plication must accom-
pany each entry.

2. Entries in the modi-
fied category must in-
clude a complete descrip-
tion of the alterations
performed on the robot.

3. The contest is open to
all HERO 1 owners, except

1 - IIMHMBMBl,

employees of Wayne
Green Inc. (publisher
of Microcomputing),
and the Heath
Company and
and their
immediate
families.
4. All entries, in-
cluding programs,
become the property
of Microcomputing.
5. All entries must be re-
ceived by Microcomputing by
September 1, 1983.

Send submissions to:

Robotics Contest

Microcomputing

80 Pine Street

Peterborough, N.H. 03458

7. Contestants may submit
more than one entry in one or

both categories.
Entries will be judged on origi-
nality and technical feasibility.
The more practical and easily
adaptable the application, the
better. Winners will be an-
nounced in the December 1983
issue of Microcomputing. So rev

up your robot, and let's put the

Heath's HERO through its paces!

MICROCOMPUTING

Microcomputing, September 1983 135

any program capable of read-
ing DIF.

Fast Facts' file copy utility
will copy any Fast Facts file
and in the process rewrite and
compact it for more efficient
use of search and file space.
The format alone can be cop-
ied, assuring that a new file
will have the identical format.

Fast Facts provides 1000
forms per file, up to 50 pages
per form and 100 items per
page. A page is one screen —
80 columns wide and 20 rows
long. The program requires
two disk drives, either two
floppies or one floppy and one
hard disk: and 128K RAM. It
costs $195 and is available
from Innovative Software,
Inc., 9300 W. 1 10th St., Suite
380, Overland Park, KS
66210. Reader Service num-
ber 463.

Making Plans

Plan80 Version 2.6 is a fi-
nancial planning program
that has the ability to consoli-
date any number of spread-
sheets and transfer any val-
ues between sheets, automat-
ically.

Plan80 has an interactive
spreadsheet mode and pro-
vides all of the common trig,
math, financial and depre-
ciation functions including
ACRS, NPV (net present val-
ue) and IRR (internal rate of
return).

It uses user-assigned names,
such as Sales - Costs = Mar-
gin, for rows and columns.
Models can be created quickly
because the model state-
ments are entered with any
familiar editor or word proces-
sor. It offers sophisticated fea-
tures like if. . then . . else
logic, a screen graphics mode
and fast data-entry functions.

Plan80 lets you transfer and
consolidate parts of many
spreadsheets by matching or
equating row or column
names. Values can be trans-
ferred from rows to columns
or vice versa. Values can be
referenced with a column
shift forward or backward.

Plan80 has extensive re-
port formatting capabilities,
including variable decimal
places, dash/zero or blank for
nil values, brackets for minus,
under/overscoring and spac-
ing, $ and % signs, and sup-
pression of nil value rows.

136 Microcomputing, September

Models can be automated so
that you can change one val-
ue and recompute and print a
30-page model with a single
command.

Plan80 requires 56K for an
8-bit system and 128K for a
16-bit system. It operates
under CP/M 80, CP/M 86, and
MS DOS. It costs $295 and is
available from Business Plan-
ning Systems, Inc., 2 North
State St., Dover, DE 19901.
Reader Service number 462.

Can You Remember?

The Einstein Corporation
( 1 1340 W. Olympic Blvd., Los
Angeles, CA 90064), has re-
leased two software pro-
grams: Memory Trainer and
the Einstein Compiler.

Memory Trainer is designed
to help you improve your
ability to remember faces,
dates, telephone numbers,
lists and quotations, and to
employ association as a mem-
ory tool.

Einstein's Memory Trainer
is a fully structured tutorial
system with color graphics
that operates on the Apple.
Atari 800 and Commodore-64
computers.

The software package in-
cludes a comprehensive user's
guide and three separate
disks containing instructional
materials. It costs $89.95.

The Einstein Compiler is
designed to take the waiting
time out of Applesoft Basic pro-
grams. By automatically
translating Applesoft Basic
programs into efficient Apple
machine language, the Ein-
stein Compiler greatly reduces
running time — making it 20
times faster in some instances.

By accelerating a program's
execution speed, the Einstein
Compiler lets you retain the
programming convenience of
Applesoft.

The Einstein Compiler re-
quires one disk drive and DOS
3.3; it operates on the Apple
He, Apple II Plus with at least
48K, Apple II with RAM card
or Applesoft in ROM, or Apple
III. It costs $129. Reader Ser-
vice number 465.

from Star Software Systems
(20600 Gramercy Place, Tor-
rance, CA 90501), is a com-
plete accounting system for
CP/M systems and the IBM
Personal Computer.

The package includes Gen-
eral Ledger, Payroll, Ac-
counts Receivable, and Ac-
counts Payable programs.
The Accounting Partner is de-
signed to offer the features of
accouting programs that sell
for much more.

The Accounting Partner will
run on any CP/M, CP/M-86,
MS DOS or PC DOS computer
(8 or 16 bit), and requires a
minimum of 56K RAM: two
disk drives or hard disk: a
24 x 80 video display with
cursor addressing and a
printer with 132 columns. It
costs $395. Reader Service
number 467.

The Accounting
Partner

The Accounting Partner.

An IBM

Word Processor

For Less Than $60

Micro Architect, Inc.'s (6
Great Pines Ave., Burlington,
MA 01803) Word-X is a $58
word processor for the IBM
Personal Computer.

The program consists of
two modules: a full-screen
editor and a text processor.

The editor features word-
wrap and global-search capa-
bilities. The text formatter of-
fers a file/merge feature, a
selection option that allows
you to print form letters selec-
tively, multiple text files and
text formatting commands
e.g., underline, subscripts, su-
perscripts, boldface and italics).

Word-X requires a mini-
mum of 96K, one single disk
drive and PC DOS (MS DOS).
Reader Service number 466.

CP/M Programs

United Software Associates
(38 A W. Oakland Ave.. Oak-
land. NJ 07436) has released
a Sort/Merge program and an
Index Card File Program for
most CP/M- and MS DOS-
based systems.

The Index Card File is de-
signed to provide a freeform
for entering data that you
wish to store in file form, with-
out the constraints of a file
management system using
fields.

The Index Card File's fea-
tures include an on-screen
display of the current disk
drive, the file name, the num-
ber of cards in a file; the func-
tion and the section of the
menu being used.

The Index Card File will let
you—

• Perform arithmetic calcula-
tions on any part of any given
system and transfer it to
another part of that card.

• Search for a word(s) on each
card in a file.

• Sort cards into ascending or
descending sequence: alpha-
betize them and/or group
them into groups of more spe-
eific or related categories.

• Have a list of all the files au-
tomatically collected on the
disk, display the list when
needed, erase or rename any
file or change a file's disk.

• Print all or selected cards in
a file and/or list of the keys.

The Index Card File costs
$49.45. The program requires
an 8080, 8085. Z-80. 8086 or
8088 processor: CP/M-80,
CP/M-86. MS DOS (PC DOS)
operating system; and 64K.
The Sort/Merge program is
designed to let you —

• Organize files in a particu-
lar order by sorting or index-
ing on up to ten keys.

• Sort or merge up to three
files at a time, and index
any file.

• Handle sequential or ran-
dom files.

With Sort/Merge, you control
what the program will do
because you set the param-
eters of the operation. The
program asks questions to
prepare the system with infor-
mation it will need to perform
the particular operation.

The program asks the num-
ber and size of the input file(s):
the type of input file(s), ran-
dom or sequential; the order
desired for the output and
whether it should be sorted or
indexed; and the number of
keys to use to sort or index.

Sort/Merge has the same re-
quirements as the Index Card
Hie. It also sells for $49.45.
Reader Service number 470.

Flex File for the
VIC and 64

Webber Software (Box 9,

1983

Southeastern, PA 19399) has
released a database manage-
ment system for the Commo-
dore-64 and VIC-20, as well as
for the PET/CBM. Flex File
2.1, written by Michael Riley,
offers all the features of earlier
versions for the larger Com-
modore machines.

With Flex File 2.1, a whole
disk can be used for files, even
with a single disk drive. There
are 16 menu-driven programs
totaling about 97K. Records
can be up to 254 characters
and have 20 fields.

With 1540 disk drive, there
can be over 3800 records of 3 1
characters and one key. With
records of 254 characters and
three keys, the maximum
number of records is 536. Up
to ten keys may be selected.

File editing features include
add, replicate, change, delete,
previous, goto, find, browse,
key, user, limit, snapshot,
wipe and return to file menu.

Flex File 2. 1 keeps all rec-
ords in order by all keys at all
times. Maximum key filed
depth is five. All mathemati-
cal (including log/trig) opera-
tions can be performed on any
numerical field or column.
Reports can be printed with
nested subtotals, totals, aver-
ages, ratios, graphs or special
user-defined results.

With Flex File 2.1, you have
control over the printed for-
mat. There are commands to
printer, headers, column ti-
tles and content, calculated
results, rounding and justifi-
cation.

Flex File 2.1 costs $110.
Reader Service number 472.

For Weekend
Investors . . .

Stock helper is designed to
help you track the ups and
downs of the stock market.
Developed by a weekend in-
vestor for other weekend in-
vestors. Stock Helper lets you
maintain a history on disk of
stock prices and market in-
dicators.

Stock Helper is a menu-driv-
en tool that displays charts
and calculates moving aver-
ages over a 52- week period.

Special features of Stock
Helper include input tem-
plates, choice of price form
(decimal, fractions or

eighths), and the capability to
print charts. Stock Helper
accommodates stock splits,
name and symbol changes
and sorting by name and
market. Stock Helper refrains
from giving advice.

Stock Helper is available for
the Commodore-64. VIC-20
and Atari 400/800/1200 ver-
sions are planned for the near
future.

Stock Helper costs $30 and
is manufactured by (M)agree-
able software, inc., 5925 Mag-
nolia Lane, Plymouth, MN
55442. Reader Service num-
ber 475.

Transferring Files

Xeno-Copy lets you transfer
files to your IBM Personal
Computer or IBM PC-XT from
disks formatted for other com-
puters. No additional hard-
ware or modems are required:
all you need is Xeno-Copy and
the actual disk.

Xeno-Copy is fully menu-
driven and is designed to be
easy to use. If you have an IBM
PC at the office and a non-IBM-
compatible portable in the
field or at home, you can take
the disk to the office, run the
Xeno-Copy software utility,
insert the foreign source disk
into one of the PC's disk
drives and a PC DOS format-
ted disk in the other drive. Se-
lect the desired files from the
source disk's directory and
the file will be transferred in a
matter of seconds.

Xeno-Copy can directly trans-
fer disk files to your PC from
many systems: IBM CP/M-86,
Kay pro II, Osborne Executive
I, TRS-80 Model III CP/M, Zor-
ba. Morrow Designs and
others.

Xeno-Copy runs on the PC
or XT and is fully compatible
with PC DOS 1.1 and 2.0 as
well as with various hard disk
setups. Separate versions for
the Compaq, the Eagle 1600
series, the Corona PC and the
Chameleon will be released
in the near future. A capabil-
ity for direct transfer of
TRS-80, TRSDOS disk files
will also be added.

Xeno-Copy costs $99.50
and is available from Vertex
Systems, 7950 W. 4th St., Los
Angeles, CA 90048. Reader
Service number 472.

Daisy wheel quality
without daisy wheel

You need the quality print that a daisy wheel
printer provides but the thought of buying one makes your
wallet wilt. The Selectric™ Interface , a step-by-step guide to
interfacing an IBM Selectric I/O Writer to your microcom-
puter, will give you that quality at a fraction of the price.
George Young, co-author of Microcomputing magazine's
popular "Kilobaud Klassroom" series, offers a low-cost al-
ternative to buying a daisy wheel printer.
The Selectric™ Interface includes:
•step-by -step instructions

• tips on purchasing a used Selectric™

• information on various Selectric™ models, in-
cluding the 2740, 2980, and Dura 1041

•driver software for Z80, 8080, and 6502 chips

•tips on interfacing techniques
With The Selectric Interface and some background in elec-
tronics, you can have a high-quality, low-cost, letter-quali-
ty printer. Petals not included.

Credit card orders call TOLL-FREE 1-800-258-5473. Or
mail your order with payment plus $1.50 shipping and
handling to: Wayne Green Inc. Attn: Retail Book Sales,
Peterborough, NH 03458.

Dealer inquiries invited. ct> -I ^> C\ *1

ISBN 0-88006-05 1-4 1 28 pages If) 1 Z ♦ 9 7

□ Yes, I want Selectric Interface (BK7388). Enclosed is $12.97 per
copy plus $1.50 for shipping and handling.

□ MASTER □ VISA D AMEX

Card #

Expires

Signature
Name

Address
City

State and Zip

All orders shipped UPS if complete street address is given.

339B7S

Microcomputing, September 1983 137

NEW PRODUCTS

Edited by Dan Muse

More Software
For Franklin

The ACE 80 CPU, from
Franklin Computer Corp.
(2138 Route 38, Cherry Hill,
NJ 08002), is a plug-in mod-
ule that is designed to expand
the software available for
Franklin computers. With the
ACE 80 CPU, the Franklin
ACE computers can run both
Apple II and CP/M software.

The ACE 80 CPU includes a
Z-80 processor and operates
at 6MHz. This reduces pro-
cessing time for most CP/M
business applications. The
ACE 80 CPU also includes
64K of RAM. It provides a hor-
izontal scrolling capability for
systems that do not include
an 80-column card. The 40-
column window can be scrolled
horizontally, permitting 80
columns to be viewed, 40 col-
umns at a time.

The ACE 80 CPU also in-
cludes system and utility
disks that contain a large se-
lection of useful programs, in-
cluding file maintenance, con-
version and copying routines,
peripheral control routines
and program development,
and debugging aids. Files cre-

ated under DOS can be con-
verted to CP/M and vice versa.
The package also includes
CBasic, a comprehensive
compiler/interpreter for use
with CP/M. The ACE 80 CPU
card costs $449. Reader Ser-
vice number 480.

Get the Spirit

The Mannesmann Tally
Spirit is a dot-matrix printer
designed for the home and
small-business microcomput-
er user. The Spirit can be used
with all major personal com-
puters, including those from
Apple, IBM and Tandy.

The Spirit uses a combina-
tion of mylar film ribbon and
the full space of its 9x8 ma-
trix; this results in high-print
resolution and intensity. The
printer has a unique print-
head that uses square ham-
mers that overlap to form
more fully connected horizon-
tal and vertical lines, rather
than a row of discrete dots.

Standard features of the
Spirit include tractor as well
as friction paper feeds. The
tractor width can be adjusted
to handle narrow-width label
stock or fanfold business

The Mannesmann Tally Spirit is a dot-matrix printer that gives
home and small-business users full-space, carbon-ribbon quali-
ty at a speed o/80 characters per second.

138 Microcomputing, September 1983

forms up to ten inches wide.
The friction feed can be used
for single-sheet and letter
stock and roll paper. The
printer operates at 80 charac-
ters per second.

The Mannesmann Tally
Spirit costs $399. A Centronics
parallel interface is standard;
an optional serial interface is
available. Mannesmann Tally
Corp., 8301 South 180th St..
Kent, WA 9803 1 . Reader num-
ber 482.

Trak's Intelligent
Drives

Trak Microcomputer Corp.'s
(1511 Ogden Ave., Downers
Grove, IL 60515) intelligent
drive systems — the AT-D1
and AT-D2— are designed to
enhance the performance of
the Atari 400, 800 and 1200
microcomputers.

AT-D1 and AT-D2, Trak's
single- and dual-density sys-
tems, feature an on-board
microprocessor and pro-
grammed memory to control
a disk drive and a printer.

A pressure-sensitive control
panel tells you of the system's
activities through read and
write indicators, and a touch-
sensitive write-protect switch
protects your valuable data on
command. A digital track
counter tells you where every
bit of your data is located.

Atari's standard single-den-
sity operation with the AT-
DI, or AT-D2's double densi-
ty capabilities, instantly
doubles your storage capa-
city. The built-in intelligent
controller provides an inter-
face for a Centronics parallel
printer for the Atari, eliminat-
ing the need for an Atari inter-
face unit.

Trak's drives feature ad-
vanced half-height mechan-
isms with steel band-head
positioning and direct-drive

Tralc Microcomputer Corp.'s
AT-D2 provides the storage of
two Atari drives and a printer
interface for less than $500.

beltless dc motors to assure
accurate head positioning,
reduced disk wear and longer,
reliable operation. Track-to-
track access time of five ms is
made possible by a low-fric-
tion carriage design.

The AT-D2 sells for less
than $500. Reader Service
number 494.

Orange's Apple
Interface

Orange Micro, Inc. ( 1400 N.
Lakeview Ave., Anaheim, CA
92807), has released the Or-
ange Interface. This parallel
interface board features more
than 15 firmware commands
for text screen dumping and
formatting on the Apple II. II
Plus and He. The Orange In-
terface is compatible with
most parallel printers.

The Orange Interface offers
an 80-column screen dump
for the Apple He. Other com-
mands include a 40-column
screen dump, page length and
margin sets, add or delete
linefeeds. When not in use for
formatting, the Orange Inter-
face acts as a standard parallel
interface, compatible with vir-
tually all Apple software,
CP/M and Pascal.

The interface costs $87 and
includes complete documen-

The Star-lite HD20,from Computershop, is an S-100 bus por-
table computer that features 20 megabytes of hard-disk
storage.

tation, a five-foot parallel
printer cable and a full 90-day
warranty. Reader Service
number 488.

An S-100 Bus
Portable with
Hard Disk Storage

The Star-lite HD20 is an
S-100 bus portable computer
with 20 megabytes of hard
disk storage built in. An auto-
matic hard-disk lock protects
the Winchester disk.

The HD20's three open
slots on the S-100 bus let you
add numerous specialized ap-
plications to the computer.
The computer features 26
programmable function keys
that let you program an up to
13-character-long command
filename into each key.

The Star-lite HD20 uses a
Z-80A CPU with 64K RAM
and has a processor speed of
4MHz. The computers oper-
ating system is CP/M 2.2. The
computer also features a nine-
inch screen that displays 24
lines and 80 columns, a de-
tachable keyboard and word
processing, spreadsheet and
modem software.

In addition to the 20 mega-
bytes of hard disk storage, the
HD20 offers 183K of 5V4-inch
floppy disk storage. The com-
puter costs $4995 and is man-
ufactured by Computershop,
139 First St., Cambridge, MA
02141. Reader Service num-
ber 489.

Apple Dumpling-S

The Dumpling-S, from Mi-

crotek, Inc. (4750 Viewridge
Ave., San Diego, CA 92123), is
a completely menu-driven se-
rial interface card for Apple II,
II Plus, He, Franklin, Basis
and other Apple lookalikes.

The Dumpling-S can oper-
ate as both a printer driver
and a modem port with no
PCB changes. Each Dump-
ling-S board is supplied with a
cable to be attached to one of
its two 24-pin headers — one is
for printers and the other is for
modems. The cable is termi-
nated in a 25-pin DB-25 con-
nector, chosen to chassis
mount on the rear of the Ap-
ple He. Two cables may be at-
tached to the Dumpling-S at
one time, so both appear on
the rear of the Apple.

The Dumpling-S costs $199.
Reader Service number 49 1 .

Two Anadex
Printers

Anadex, Inc. (9825 De So-
to Ave., Chatsworth, CA
91311), has released two
printers: the DP-6500 Rap-
id/Scribe and the DP-9725A
Color/Scribe.

The DP-6500 Rapid/Scribe
achieves speeds of 500 cps
at 10 cpi and 540 cps at 12
cpi. Key to the high-printing
speeds is an 18-needle print-
head consisting of two vertical
columns of nine each. Since
the two columns of print
needles are adjacent, two
identical columns of dots may
be printed at one time.

The DP-6500 features en-
hanced mode printing with ei-
ther proportional spacing or

The Anadex DP-9725A Color/Scribe printer is capable of print-
ing multiple colors in four modes.

ten, 12, 15 and 16.4 cpi at
speeds up to 410 cps. Seven
International Standards Orga-
nization (ISO) character sets
are included: Swedish, Da-
nish-Norwegian, German,
French, Spanish, Italian and
standard USASCII. The high-
resolution graphics mode pro-
vides a dot resolution of either
72 or 144 dots per inch.

The DP-6500 costs $2995.

Anadex's DP-9725A Color/
Scribe printer produces mul-
tiple colors in four modes, in-
cluding enhanced, correspon-
dence and data processing
quality, as well as high-reso-
lution graphics. Printing ver-
satility is achieved by sin-
gle- and multiple-pass modes,
which permit full-color capa-
bilities and multiquality char-
acters.

For color printing, the DP-
9725A employs a four-color
ribbon with yellow, magenta,
cyan and black bands. A
single color can be selected for
each pass of the printer, pro-
viding multiple color combin-
ations. The printer also has

the ability to change colors at
any point in a printed line.

One of the DP-9725As ap-
plications is printing graphics
such as barcharts and curves
in various colors. Graphics
resolution is 144 or 72 dots
per inch in both horizontal
and vertical dimensions.

DP-9725A features the
same seven ISO character
sets as the DP-6500. Other
features of the DP-9725A in-
clude left, right and full justifi-
cation; title centering; posi-
tive halfline feed; in-line font
changes; and RAM expansion
to 12.5K in 4K increments.
The printer costs $2350.
Reader Service number 48 1 .

VIC's Super mot her

Compuscope (6400 Signal)
St., Tillamook, OR 97141) has
designed its Supermother ex-
pansion board to inexpensive-
ly add features, functions and
performance capacity to the
Commodore VIC-20 computer.

With the Supermother you
get—

The Anadex Rapid/Scribe printer achieves speeds of 500 cps
at ten cpi and 540 cps at 12 cpi.

Microcomputing, September 1983 139

Compuscope's Supermother expansion board is designed to
add features, functions and performance capacity to the
VIC-20.

• Eight switch-selectable car-
tridge slots. You can run sin-
gle or mulitple VIC-20 pro-
gram cartridges, add mem-
ory, run utility programs and
add up to 35K of add-on
memory.

• System reset button, which
eliminates wear and tear on
the VIC-20. Supermother re-
sets the computer at the touch
of a button.

• Pause button. Supermother
lets you stop a program in
progress and start it up again
at your command.

• Replaceable fuse. It protects
your VIC-20' s power supply
from accidental damage.

• Write-protection switch.
This switch, when used with
Blocksave software (which is
included), lets you make
back-up copies of cartridge
programs on tape or disk.

Compuscope's Supermoth-
er is fully buffered to ensure
accurate data transmission
from the board to the VIC-20.
It features simple, rear plug-in
installation and is compatible
with most VIC-20 expansion
modules. The board sells for
$129. Reader Service number
484.

Commodore- Atari
Modem

The AutoPrint-Microcon-
nection, from Microperipheral
Corp. (2565 152nd Ave. NE.,
Redmond, WA 98052), is a
modem for the Commodore-
64, VIC-20 and Atari com-

puters. The unit features both
an autodial and autoanswer
capability. It also has a built-
in Centronics-compatible
parallel printer port.

Enclosed in a professional
quality extruded aluminum
case, the modem operates at
300 baud in either originate or
answer mode. The combina-
tion modem and printer inter-
face plugs directly into the
computer without the need
for additional interface de-
vices. Telecommunication
software is included in the
user's manual.

The printer port lets you
connect conventional parallel
printers, such as Epson and
Okidata. With the modem
connected to the phone line,
the printer will simultaneous-
ly provide hard copy of what-
ever appears on the screen.

The AutoPrint-Microcon-
nection measures 5x6x2

Amdeks Digital Multiplexor Board (top) plugs into the Apple II
or II Plus and is designed to give RGB output with switchable
color text in any high-resolution color.

inches and weighs two
pounds. It costs $149.95.
Reader Service number 483.

Color Board
For the Apple

The Digital Video
Multiplexor Board (DVM-II)
plugs into any expansion slot
of an Apple II or Apple II Plus
computer and is designed to
supply RGB output for ana-
log or digital monitors. The
board features 15 low-resolu-
tion colors ( 16 with an analog
monitor) and two additional
high-resolution modes: all
white and three-color with
pure white, and is color se-
lectable for all green or other
colored text.

The DVM-II is expansion-
slot independent. With a sim-
ple plug-in installation, it can
supply the computer with
RGB output. The board uses
Apple NTSC video output.
The board will provide 80-

The AutoPrint-Microconnection provides VIC-20, Commo-
dore-64 and Atari computer users with both autodial and
auto-answer capability. It also has a built-in Centronics-com-

column capabilities in high-
resolution colors with the use
of any RS- 170 output, 80-col-
umn card.

The DVM-II includes two
connector cables and one vid-
eo monitor connector cable
to allow the board to be
adapted to the monitor. The
functioning of the DVM-II
is controlled by software
switches that are slot depen-
dent. The board is manufac-
tured by Amdek Corp., 2201
Lively Blvd., Elk Grove Vil-
lage, IL 60007. It costs $199.
Reader Service number 492.

patible parallel printer port.
140 Microcomputing, September 1983

The AT- 100:
Plug It In, and Go

The AT- 100 is an Atari
plug-compatible printer that
comes with everything need-
ed to perform low-cost word
processing and graphics on
the Atari 400, 800 and 1200
computers.

The AT- 100 is shipped
with a cable that plugs direct-
ly into the Atari user/serial
port and doesn't require the
850 interface.

The AT- 100 includes hires
screen dump software and
uses standard-width fanfold
paper with a cartridge rib-
bon. Other peripherals, such
as disk drives and cassette
recorders, can be daisy-
chained to the printer with-
out the need for an 850 inter-
face. A minimum system
might include the Atari 400, a
cassette recorder and the
AT- 100.

The price of the printer is

Axiom's ATI 00 printer is a low-cost printer ($299) that comes
with everything needed to perform word processing and
graphics on Atari computer systems.

$299. It is available from Ax-
iom Corp., 1014 Griswold Ave.,
San Fernando, CA 91340.
Reader Service number 493.

A Printer For
All Computers

The Alphacom 81 is an
80-column printer with
graphics capabilities for
many home and personal
computers, including Com-
modore, Apple, Atari and the
TRS-80 Color Computer.

The printer can print up to
80 characters per second. It
combines a single-chip' mi-
croprocessor with the Olivet-
ti THM-125 dot matrix print
mechanism, using thermal
technology.

The unit is packaged in a
lightweight, impact-resistant
plastic housing that covers
the thermal paper roll. The
printer's other features in-
clude friction feed and the
capability for bit-mapped

graphics.

The Alphacom 81 can be
linked to most home comput-
ers by plugging the appropri-
ate interface into the print-
er's cartridge-like slot.

The printer can print in
upper- and lowercase and has
a wrap-around facility for
printing text lines longer than
80 characters. It recognizes
standard ASCII control of
action codes for changing
printing modes. Codes in-
clude carriage return, line and
multiline feed, right justifica-
tion, form feed and graphics
controls.

The Alphacom 81 costs
$169.95. Alphacom, Inc.,
2323 South Bascom Ave.,
Campbell, CA 95008. Reader
Service number 487.

Bring Your Timex
Up to 64K

Gladstone Electronics (1585

Gladstone Electronics' 64K
RAM expander transforms
the Timex-Sinclair 1 000 into
a powerful tool for business,
educational and household
uses.

Kenmore Ave., Buffalo, NY
14217) has introduced a 64K
RAM expansion for the Ti-
mex-Sinclair 1000.

The Gladstone 64K RAM is
designed to expand the ca-
pacity of the TS-1000 to its
maximum, transforming the
small, inexpensive computer
into a powerful tool for busi-
ness, educational and house-
hold uses.

The 64K expander features
a precision-molded plastic
case with a quality edge con-
nector for a tight fit to the ex-
pansion port of the TS- 1 000.

The Gladstone 64K RAM
expander can be purchased
for less than $100. Reader
Service number 486.

Pronto's 16-bit
Computer

Pronto Computer, Inc.'s

(3170 Kashiwa St., Torrance,
CA 90505) Series 16 is a full
16-bit computer. The com-
puter utilizes Intel's new
1APX186 microprocessor and
comes standard with 128K
bytes of RAM; the system can
be expanded to one mega-
byte. Serial and parallel ports,
a clock/Calendar and a sys-
tem security ROM are also
included.

The Pronto Series 16 is
available in four configura-
tions: an 800K formatted
floppy disk drive version
($2995); a dual floppy disk
drive version with 1.6 mega-
byte capacity ($3750); a single
floppy disk drive version with
a removable 5M hard disk
drive ($4995); or a dual five
megabyte removable hard
disk drive version ($5995).

Pronto's keyboard will ad-
just to three height levels. It
provides adjustable acoustic
feedback, letting you type si-
lently or with audio re-
sponse. The keyboard has a
standard typewriter layout
and has a complement of ten
user-programmable function
keys and separate cursor
keys and numeric pad.

All software currently avail-
able for MS DOS 20 will oper-
ate on Pronto's Series 16,
including many programs
developed for the IBM
Personal Computer and XT.
Reader Service number 485.

The Alphacom 81 is a low-cost ($169.95), 80-column, thermal
printer with graphics capabilities. The printer can be used
with Commodore, Apple, Atari, Tandy and Mattel systems.

Jr ^^ mrn^.

The Pronto Series Wis a full 16-bit microcomputer with 128K
RAM.

Microcomputing, September 1983 141

REVIEWS

(From p. 146)

Summary

The whole process requires less effort
to implement than it does to describe or
read about. Merely call up the program,
feed it the file to be checked and respond
to appropriate prompts. Voilal An ac-
curately proofed file, with no need for
subsequent operations.

The program does not replace the orig-
inal file; it merely renames it to
(filename).BAK, and names the corrected
file with the original extension.

All in all, this is an excellent package.
The software performs as advertised, and
the documentation is at an appropriate
level of complexity . (Aspen Software Co.,
PO Box 339, Tijeras, NM 87059. $50.)

Mitchell Hobish
College Park, MD

Apple 11-6502
Assembly Language
Tutor

If you thought you couldn't
Learn assembly language,
Read on

I've had an Apple II since August 1978.
Since September 1978, I've been trying to
learn assembly language programming.
I've spent more than $100 on books that
have promised to teach me. But even now,
all the programs I have written are in Ap-
plesoft or Integer Basic— not one in assem-
bly language. I can't seem to get the hang
of it.

But that's beginning to change, with a
new book— no, a package — by Richard
Haskell, called Apple 11-6502 Assembly
Language Tutor (Prentice-Hall, Inc.). For
$34.95, you get a well-written book plus a
disk-based program that supports the text
in a manner discussed later.

The package requires that you have at
least a 48K Apple II, II Plus or lie, with a
disk drive. (The book doesn't mention a
lie, but the program runs on mine, so what
the heck?)

It's not that the book is easy — it's not, as
far as I'm concerned, because my mind
doesn't bend that way. The concepts
themselves are difficult for me.

It Is Possible

But this book is different. It's just hard,
not impossible. The thing that makes the
difference is the fact that it's written
around a companion program called Tu-
tor. This program displays your Apple's
memory and register contents while your
example programs are executed. Finally!
Hands-on assembly language tutoring!

142 Microcomputing, September 1983

The program reminds me a bit of Visi-
Calc. You move around in the display with
the left and right arrow keys, and toggle
those keys between vertical and horizon-
tal movement with the space bar. A hy-
phen or exclamation mark in the upper
right-hand corner of the screen tells you
whether you are in horizontal or vertical
mode. Typing a □ lets you jump directly to
whatever memory location you specify.

The command structure is similar, too.
Typing a / puts you in command mode
with 14 commands available. The com-
mands are —

/B Set breakpoint

/D Delete a block of bytes

/E Execute a program

/F Find a particular string of bytes

A Insert any number of hex bytes

/L List a disassembled portion of

memory
/M Enter hex or ASCII values in

memory
/O Calculate branching offset
/P Print a disassembled portion of

memory on a printer
/R Change the contents of a register
/S Storage (L for load, S for save-
sound familiar?
/T Transfer a block of bytes
/Q Quit (D for DOS, M for monitor)
/Z Display the copyright message

I can't discuss all of these commands,
because I haven't finished my training.
But I will finish, because this marriage of
text and software makes it possible for
me to understand; that's the difference
between this package and mere text-
books on machine language program-
ming. It doesn't make it easy— not for
me, at least — but it does make it possible.

Chapter subjects are pretty standard.
They have to be, because the subject of
machine language programming has nat-
ural divisions. So this book, as do most of
the others I have collected, has chapters
on the 6502 Microprocessor, Computer
Memory, the 6502 Registers, 6502 Arith-
metic, Branching Instructions, the Stack
and Subroutines, Addressing Modes, Dis-
playing Characters on the Screen, Low-
Resolution Graphics, High-Resolution
Graphics, Using the Game I/O Connect-
or, Using the Peripheral I/O Slots, the
6821 Peripheral Interface Adapter (PIA),
and Interrupts and Serial I/O — the ACIA.
In addition, it has three appendices called
The 6502 Instruction Set, The Tutor
Monitor and Using Machine Language
Subroutines with Basic. All in all, it pret-
ty much covers the ground.

The first chapter is an introduction, de-
signed to convince you that learning as-
sembly language programming is worth
the effort. It explains that when you be-
gin to program in earnest, you'll want to
use an assembler to convert mnemonics
to machine language code — but that
you'll do it by hand in this book, to give

you a more thorough understanding of
what's going on.

Chapter 2 gives you the necessary pre-
liminary information— for example, dis-
cussing the data bus and counting in bi-
nary and hexadecimal. It also introduces
you to the Tutor program, and gives you
some hands-on training right away. Your
success in this is pretty much guaran-
teed. You finish the chapter with a sense
of accomplishment. You don't really
know what you're doing yet, but you can
see that it won't be long.

And it won't. Chapters 3, 4 and 5 bring
you up to speed on basic information
with discussions of computer memory,
the 6502 registers and 6502 instruc-
tions—all reinforced with exercises using
the Tutor program.

From then on, things get pretty spe-
cific. This is where, with other books, my
brain gives me an overflow error. Locally,
I'm known as the "Chapter 5 Dropout."
But with the help of the Tutor that's not
happening. I must be getting sick, be-
cause it's beginning to make sense.

I think most of us purchase textbooks
with the subconscious idea that if we
read them we will somehow acquire all
the knowledge they contain— by osmo-
sis, perhaps. I know I do. I'm a sucker for
any book whose flyleaf tells me that it can
teach me all I need to know to fix a car.
build a house or learn machine language
programming. I'm always disappointed,
because I find that although the informa-
tion is there, I have to study to make it
mine. This book is no different in that re-
spect. But it is different— and better— in
that its hands-on approach and the ever-
ready Tutor make the study pay off.
(Prentice-Hall, Inc., Englewood Cliffs, NJ
07362.)

David Goodf ellow
Seattle, WA

Magic Window II

A smooth, powerful
And reasonably priced
Apple word processor

Did your secretary call in sick with that
pesky prospectus already two days late?

Hey, don't worry. With all the word
processing software available, you'll be
off and typing in no time. But with so
many to choose from, you may be tempt-
ed to bang your head against the display
window.

Rather than risk a cracked window or
head, I purchased a Magic Window (the
screen displays a moving window of text
that follows the cursor) because of its
price and availability. The original
Window was an obviously stripped-down
word handler, lacking such niceties as
imbedded control characters, DOS com-
mands, and search and replace abilities,

Circle 92 on Reader Service card.

Circle 373 on Reader Service card.

Products

$ALE

JPC is closing out some of its SS-50/30
Product Line . . . and having a Sale on
the rest! Close out when stock is gone,
Sale ends Sept. 30, 1983.

CLOSE OUT

MX-6 SS-50 Extender $15.95

CK-7 Real Time Clock $45.95

DAC-5 Dual Channel A/D $59.95

PA-15 Parallel Intertace Sold Out

TS-1 1 Motor Control Sold Out

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Phone Orders (305) 974-0967 TWX 510-955-9496

Circle 244 on Reader Service card.

Big Al here Me and the boys got

sick and tired of listening to all the excuses
from my representatives about power
problems on their computers. Being in the
Book Business, this can get expensive...
losing customer records of purchases and
tffltftt payables.

To remedy this and to keep our agents'
heads above the water (so to speak) we got
us a truckload of MAYDAYS from SUN
RESEARCH.

Even at retail, they are a bargain... only
$325.00 for a 150 watt Uninterruptible
Power Supply with voltage regulator and
battery. Keeps our computer free of
problems caused by brownouts and xpfofyfys
blackouts and other bad stuff on the line.
And small enough to be moved in case you
have to pack up and leave quickly.

So, buy a MA YD AY... if you know what's
good for you.

MAYDAY Division

SUN RESEARCH, INC.

Box 210, New Durham, NH 03855

603/859-71 1 TWX 51 02974444

Microcomputing, September 1983 143

but at $ 100 it was still a bargain. It turned
out to be a smooth tool for typing memos.

Magic Window II is still smooth, but
has now become a powerful, competent
word processor. Retaining the easy-to-
use menu/submenu format, this pro-
gram has added some features that were
sorely missed in the first Magic Window.

When you boot up, you soon find your-
self in the main menu. From this point
you jump to menus that control the
screen output (upper- and lowercase),
format your work (margins and page
size), provide access to your files for re-
trieval and storage, send you to the
screen to compose your missive, and fi-
nally help you to print it out for posterity.
Of course, all of the extras are here such
as justifying, deleting, moving, editing
and duplicating lines. By typing CTRL-B,
characters to signal print-type changes
can be imbedded into the text and special
characters (:![]/ 1 /2) are generated. Improve-
ments are legion.

Shift key alterations are included. Files
are loaded by number rather than name,
saving time and effort.

There is advanced line and paragraph
gluing to speed up your rewrites. The
ability to run off multiple copies means
you no longer have to repeatedly prompt
the system. Search and replace allows
you to mail out professional-looking ap-
peals for money (the kind where your
name and address keep popping up
throughout the text). Even the manual
has been expanded with a fine introduc-
tion and a section explaining unformat-
ted files so understandably that I now
make good use of this feature.

There are, however, some problems
with the Magic Window II. I'm sure that
some of the difficulties stem from the fact
that this is the first printing, but why, oh
why, don't the instructions for booting
up agree with the screen output?

When you boot up, the system asks,
"1-text, 2-hi-res?" Why? I'm not sure;
either answer causes the same screen
output. Nowhere in my manual can I find
a mention of this. However, there are nu-
merous references to a practice "Driver
Diskette," which was missing when I re-
ceived my Magic Window. I'm told that
it's "on the way."

More serious is the fact that some of the
improvements are annoying or faulty.
For example, highly annoying is the new
safety, which beeps loudly whenever you
clear out a program you don't want to
save. After the hundredth beep you'll ei-
ther become adjusted or throw your disk
drive at the monitor. Is this really neces-
sary? I never accidentally erased a work
file on the old system, but I did rip out my
car's seat-belt beeper.

The worst flaw is the tab system. When
I use an old Magic Window file, I find that
every space is magically tabbed and I
must clear them all out and start over.
And then there's the occasional disap-
pearing tab where the cursor vanishes

144 Microcomputing, September 1983

from the screen. Yes, it does reappear
when I hit the tab key a few times, but is
this the way it's supposed to work?

Surprisingly, I'm still a fan of the Magic
Window series. Despite its first printing
flaws, the Magic Window II remains a rea-
sonably priced, smooth, powerful and
flexible word processor, and I do recom-
mend it.

Magic Window II, written for Apple
computers by Bill Depew, is published by
ARTSCI, Inc. (5547 Satsuma Ave., North
Hollywood, CA 91601. $149.95).

Michael A. Cherry
Park Ridge, IL

DataFax

A database
That isn't really
A database

DataFax is a keyword database that
disavows structure. In fact. Link Systems
disavows the term "database." But what-
ever you call it, DataFax is an impressive
system that can take the information you
give it in whatever sequence, size, com-
plexity, simplicity or jargon, and can
store, sort, index, search, reference, pre-
sent, print. . .with the touch of a key
here and there. If you have piles of paper
that seem to fit into no structural format,
you should investigate DataFax.

The basic DataFax unit is called the
"folder." Up to 3000 folders, each con-
taining up to 255 pages of information
with up to 60 keywords, may be devel-
oped. That should be enough. Shorter
documents and keywords increase the
utility of the system.

The upward limit of DataFax is a func-
tion of available disk space. Hard disks
will be useful with this package. But Da-
taFax is good to its user. If the disk gets
too full, you can split the data onto other
disks. Unlike many database packages
on the market, DataFax lets you estab-
lish keywords and indices dynamically,
allowing reference to anything you have

in the file.

Sorting can be done alphabetically, nu-
merically, by date of entry, specific sub-
ject and by any wild scheme you may en-
vision. And DataFax gives you "wild
card" options, permitting you to cut the
amount of search time.

What's on the Menu?

Written in Pascal (one of the most
structured languages) and operating un-
der the UCSD-p System, this package is
self-contained. Here is the opening
menu:

S(etup a new database)
0(pen an existing database)
B(ack up a disk)
F(ormat or erase disk)
C(onfigure system)
Translate text files)

This particular style of menu is common
to Pascal users. The DataFax system,
however, is largely a one-key system.
Most of these options are self-explana-
tory, with the possible exception of the
last two.

The Configure option allows you to
specify the memory that can be used, as
well as some peripheral data.

The Translate option provides a uni-
que feature: the entry of text files from
your word processor into the collection,
allowing you to create indices on any
number of words in the text. This is done
through a transportability (load/unload)
feature that works, but takes some tech-
nical knowledge to accomplish. More on
that later.

Entry of data to DataFax is entirely

freeform. There are no fixed screen stubs
or templates (unless you want them and
are willing to pay a price for them — even
Link acknowledges that the data process-
ing world may not be ready for structured
non-structure).

The screen is blank. You enter the
information, mark the keywords and file
it away. There are three ways to mark the
keywords — as you type them, as you re-
view the document, or as you view the
keyword list and wish to add to it. The
keyword list then becomes a sorted,
structured method to access totally un-
structured data.

Data may be searched on the DataFax
database by one of two searching methods:
Examine and Scan. Examine provides
record-by-record exposure. Scan dis-
plays the first line of the record as a
means to select the specific data to be
examined.

Keywords may be scanned for a record,
for a group of records or for the entire file.
Searching is Boolean. You may search by
single keyword, by combinations of key-
words, by selection amongst keywords or
combinations thereof. The way DataFax
does it looks as if you had coded your data
retrieval in Cobol.

DataFax has an excellent editor, one
which uses a technique I haven't seen for
a few years. There are some commands
that must be learned, but they are one-
and two-key commands, most of which
involve the use of the control key. The
numeric keypad arrows move the cursor
(as does the return key). Some of the fea-
tures of the Basic editor work, such as in-
sert and delete.

The insert works by pressing the insert
key once for each character to be insert-
ed. There will be some control-key confu-
sion with other software packages, such
as WordStar.

If you're not familiar with Pascal and
the UCSD-p System, there are some new
concepts to be learned. Be prepared for a
long boot time, during which you'll won-
der if your machine is malfunctioning. It
takes less than a minute to load, but it
seems like an eternity.

Circle 17 on Reader Service card.

As I mentioned, it is possible to use
word processing and other text files with
this package. However, that is not to im-
ply that direct entry of that data is possi-
ble. There is an intermediate translation
step through DataFax's translation utili-
ty that will be nightmarish until you have
the hang of it. Until that time, however,
you will have to experiment — or call
Link — until you get it.

TbAs process vs not one a noncomputer
person will find easy to accomplish. Link
would be well advised to simplify the pro-
cess by providing instructions for this
feature; it is not currently a part of the tu-
torial. There are other strange features,
such as drive assignments. PC users are
accustomed to referring to Drives A and
B, whereas Pascal refers to them as
Drives 1 and 2. This problem is not unique
to DataFax, but these messages can be
intercepted and translated. It's a pity that
they didn't do so, but the problem is not
insurmountable.

DataFax memory usage is flexible. It
can be used with 64K. And while the up-
ward structure limit seems to be 128K,
DataFax indicated that it took 160K. (My
system is 320K, with 160K reserved to
RAMDisk.) More space provides more
ability to work with text in main memory
before the data has been filed out to disk.
On disk there is some overhead, as well. If
you have extensive data, there is no sac-
rifice. However, if you want to catalog a
lot of little pieces of data, this may be a
problem.

The minimum allocation of disk space
seems to be 512K, or four 128K sectors
(assuming a PC DOS-compatible eight-
sector vs standard ten-sector format).

During the format command, you're
asked how many blocks are desired for
your file, with a default of 390. Divide 160K
by 390 and you can see the size that is allo-
cated per record. The package will permit a
record of only 64K, however, and the 5 12K
is the size of the read/write buffer. Where
there is no precise formula, the amount
of space taken is a function of the number
and size of the keys, as some keys are
stored more than once.

DataFax is well-packaged. The docu-
mentation, while not typeset, is clear and
comprehensive— laced with a touch of
humor in all the right places. The incor-
porated tutorial is good, but could be ex-
panded to encompass all features of the
system, not simply those minimum ele-
ments to initiate operation.

DataFax may not have all the bells and
whistles of other database packages, but
for an unstructured nondatabase data-
base, this is an accomplished package
that can turn chaos into organization as
easily as any data repository software,
and much more easily that some. Its fa-
cility is certainly worth considering.
(Unk Systems. J 640 19th St., Santa
Monica, CA 90404. $299.)

Ken Lord
Wlnchendon, MA

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& FILE CASES.

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File boxes: each file box holds 12 issues, with spines
visible for easy reference.

$5.95 each, 3 for $17.00, 6 for $30.00
Binders: each binder holds 12 issues and opens flat
for easy reading.

$7.50 each, 3 for $21.75, 6 for $42.00
(USA postage paid. Foreign orders must include
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Stores /Magazine Dealers

You have a large technical audience that
speaks English and is in need of the kind of
microcomputer information the Wayne
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Provide your audience with the maga-
zines they need and make money at the
same time. For details on selling Micro -
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Microcomputing, September 1983 145

SOFTWARE REVIEWS

Edited by Dan Muse

An Example-Setting Spelling Checker
Yes, You Can Learn Assembly Language!
A Magical Apple Word Processor
DataFax— A Database That Isn't a Database

Proofreader

This spelling-checker
Should serve as an example
To other software vendors.

It's a rare pleasure to be able to recom-
mend a product with unabashed enthusi-
asm. Aspen Software Co., of Tijeras, NM,
has produced a proofreading program
that is so easy to use, so comprehensive
in its scope and so well-documented, that
it should serve as an example to other
software producers.

Proofreader is a spelling-checker pro-
gram for CP/M or IBM Personal Computer
systems, based on the Random House
Dictionary. The dictionary itself comes in
different sizes, depending on the capac-
ity of the disk drives.

Upgrading the dictionary to larger
sizes costs $10. The lexicons used were
arrived at by ranking all the words found
in several months' analysis of one com-
puter service corporation's electronic
mail. Each word was assigned a rank,
from one (consistently used in communi-
cations) to 20 (words that seldom
appear).

From these ranks, lexicons of several
sizes have been constructed. The default
version of the dictionary contains 32,000
words and requires 72K of disk space.
However, dictionaries up to 83,000
words are available for some formats. Un-
like several other spelling-checker pro-
grams, the dictionaries supplied with
Proofreader contain complete words;
there is no suffix or prefix stripping or
hashing.

The supplier contends that this is more
accurate than other compaction algo-
rithms. For the sake of the program, a
word is defined as a series of ASCII char-
acters in the range "a" to "z" (upper- and
lowercase are treated alike), separated by
any of several delimiters, such as blanks,
numbers or special characters. Apostro-
phes and hyphens are the exceptions to

146 Microcomputing, September 1983

this rule, however, and are dealt with in a
manner that depends on the environ-
ment of the mark. Hyphenation may be
dealt with in either a "hard" or "soft"
manner, similar to WordStar.

Program Use

Using the program is simple. You
merely call up the .COM file by typing
"PRF" with the appropriate filename .ext
in response to CP/M's prompt. If no file is
designated, the program will ask you for
the name of the file you want to check.

The text file must be in ASCII format. If
your text editing program doesn't gener-
ate ASCII format files, they will have to be
converted before Proofreader can be
used. One exception to this is the format
used by WordStar, whose files are of a
modified ASCII variety.

After entering the filename, Proofread-
er presents a screen that allows you to see
the progress of the program. Total words
read (as defined above) are reported.
Then the words are sorted to generate a
unique word list, which is then checked
by the main dictionary and the auxiliary
dictionary.

When finished, Proofreader reports the
number of unknown words that it found.
You then have several options available.

You may correct the error, display all
flagged words, review all flagged words,
mark flagged words in the text or exit
from Proofreader. If you choose not to
correct the word, all the words may be re-
viewed, out of context, for preliminary
checking.

It is suggested that this mode be used
when many proper nouns may be found
in the text. If you choose not to have the
program correct the error automatically,
it will mark the appropriate words in the
text with a " # ." Subsequent use of a
search function in a word processing pro-
gram will allow location of these marked
words. This automatic correction could
cause problems in files whose contents
have been "hard" right justified; correc-
tion of the error may result in a line that is

no longer right justified.

Interactive correction is the normal
mode. Two lines of context are shown for
each error. The word is underlined or, if
your terminal/computer supports any of
several video attributes (e.g., reverse vid-
eo or half intensity), the word may be
highlighted in this manner.

The word may be corrected immedi-
ately, with the correct word substituted
into the text, and may subsequently be
learned by the auxiliary dictionary. The
word may be accepted for the remainder
of the checking session, or it may be ac-
cepted "just this once," and therefore
queried again if found later in the docu-
ment. This process precludes the neces-
sity of having words merely marked by
the program, requiring you to enter your
text editing program for changes.

If you're not sure of the spelling of a
word, a single keystroke allows you to ac-
cess the dictionary for a list of words that
are fairly close in spelling to the one in
question.

There are a couple of bugs in this
routine. Questioning the spelling of a
word whose first two or three letters are
near the end of the alphabet may result in
display of words that are not at all close to
the word in question. This is a small
problem, however, and doesn't affect the
efficacy of the program.

At the end of a checking session, any of
several options may be selected, depend-
ing on the defaults chosen during in-
stallation of the program. If any words

are learned during the session, these en-
tries will be placed in the auxiliary dic-
tionary. There is a practical limit to the
size of this auxiliary dictionary in that ex-
cessive length will slow down the check-
ing process; the master dictionary may
be updated by adding entries from the
auxiliary dictionary, using the PRF ADD
program, which is supplied.

(Continued on p. 142)

MAXI PROGRAMMING
FOR MICRO-COMPUTERS

Let ALCOR Language Systems

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ALCOR languages can guide you step-
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Professional programmers know that the
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is a waste of your valuable time and
unnecessary with ALCOR languages.

Circle 109 on Reader Service card.

If you want to develop
quality software, do it with
die quality language system
from ALCOR.

MULTI-BASIC— A revolutionary
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Not only does it support powerful fea-
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PASCAL — A powerful Jensen and
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These language systems are now
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□ Yes! Please rush via return mail
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□ Pascal

D Multi-Basic

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Dealer, Distributor and OEM Inquiries Invited.

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CBASIC are trademarks of Digital Research. MBASK is a trademark of
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C 1983, ALCOR Systems. Gmrbmd, Texas

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